In the Ukrainian part of the Danube Delta, rewilding efforts have reconnected the life-giving waters of the River Danube with Lake Kartal. The lake’s rapid comeback — and the growing benefits this is delivering to nature and local communities — shows how powerful wetland restoration can be.

Across Europe, community leaders such as mayors play a vital role supporting nature recovery by helping people and wildlife share space. Launched at a well-attended webinar, new guidance will equip these leaders with the knowledge and solutions to enhance coexistence and unlock the benefits of wildlife comeback.

Based in the Normandy region of France, the PRELE initiative is breathing new life into forests, wetlands, and farmland by letting nature lead its own recovery. Its pioneering role in advancing French rewilding makes it a highly valued new member of the network.

In a historic step for rewilding in Spain, nine European bison have been released for the first time in the Iberian Highlands. As part of an international study, they will help unlock vital insights into how bison can restore ecosystems across Europe, while also bringing renewed hope and opportunity to the local community of El Recuenco.

To grow the European rewilding movement we must first reignite the bond between people and nature. From award-winning films and a powerful hip-hop track to bold collaborations with influential voices, Rewilding Europe’s landscape teams are forging emotional connections in innovative ways.

Recent red deer releases across multiple hunting concessions in the Velebit Mountains are a powerful testament to what can be achieved through a shared vision for nature recovery. Collaborative efforts between Rewilding Velebit and local hunting associations are fostering trust, strengthening partnerships, and laying the groundwork for lasting change.

For the first time in history, Przewalski’s horses have been released into a protected area of Spain’s Iberian Highlands. This milestone introduction will help shape a wilder landscape, drive nature-based tourism, and support the recovery of this iconic subspecies.

From rivers flowing freely again and forests regenerating, to vultures taking to the skies and wild grazers reshaping the land, 2025 was a year of action for Rewilding Europe — and of visible, hopeful change. Across our 11 rewilding landscapes, nature is returning with strength and resilience, and the communities who call these places home are starting to flourish alongside it.

With the appeal of rewilding burning as brightly as ever, the number of European Young Rewilders has surged over the past three years. But the real success story is how the ambitions of this talented and passionate community are translating into meaningful action.

From peatland restoration to natural grazing, Wilderway is mobilising money for rewilding initiatives across Europe. Three critical new partnerships will help the company take its efforts to the next level, offering hope that large-scale nature recovery can be accelerated.