Across Europe, rewilding is already delivering tangible results for people, nature, and climate. Over the next 12 months, bigger and bolder actions can amplify rewilding’s positive impact.

Wildlife comeback can sometimes lead to coexistence challenges. A recent example from the Ukrainian part of the Danube Delta rewilding landscape shows how simple solutions can often overcome these challenges, ensuring the recovery of wild nature benefits all.

Over the past six years, Rewilding Portugal has undertaken a wide range of actions to enable the natural recovery of Iberian wolves south of the Douro River. In collaboration with local partners and supported by the European Commission, the “LIFE WolFlux” initiative has provided a strong foundation for ongoing work aimed at securing a brighter future for this iconic keystone species.

Rewilding Europe’s European Wildlife Comeback Fund has supported the release of 13 pine martens in northwest England, helping to advance the recovery of this ecologically important animal in the UK. The fund has disbursed around 540,000 euros in support of 12 wildlife releases so far this year, with more grants in the pipeline.

Four cinereous vultures have just been released in the Iberian Highlands in Spain, as part of an ongoing reintroduction programme. The restoration of this iconic and ecologically important bird as a breeding species will enhance the health of the rewilding landscape and support nature-based economic development.

Five eagle owls have just been released in the Danube Delta rewilding landscape in Ukraine, as part of an ongoing reintroduction programme. The releases represent a significant step forward in the programme, which aims to re-establish a viable population of the birds in the landscape and enhance the overall health of the delta ecosystem.

The Rewilding Ukraine team are engaged in long-term efforts to create a wilder and healthier Tarutino Steppe. The ongoing reintroduction of European hamsters will help to restore local food webs, enhance biodiversity, and boost nature-based tourism.

Two groups of steppe marmots have just been released on Ukraine’s Tarutino Steppe, which is part of the extended Danube Delta rewilding landscape. Boosting the thriving population of marmots already here, the 18 animals will help to create a healthier, more functional steppe environment.

The European wildcat is in danger of extinction in Portugal. The first confirmed sighting of a wildcat within a Greater Côa Valley rewilding site is therefore great news, highlighting the importance of landscape restoration efforts and targeted population support measures.

Geological conditions mean surface water has always been relatively scarce in Croatia’s Velebit Mountains. Changes in land use and climate are now making it even scarcer. This blog by Rewilding Velebit Communications Officer Kruno Bošnjaković explains how the local rewilding team are helping Velebit wildlife by providing reliable and safe sources of water across the landscape.