Full Breakdown
Larkrise Rewilding Project Restores Wildlife to Former Pasture
By Drooid · · How we work
Project Overview
The Guardian’s country-diary piece describes a rewilding effort on a 10-acre parcel of poorly drained land near Larkrise, on the northern edge of the parish overlooking Kit Hill and Dartmoor. Initiated roughly seven years ago, the project has transformed the former grazing field into a mosaic of trees, hedgerows, ponds and open grassland that now supports a diverse assemblage of birds, mammals and invertebrates.
Historical Context and Land Management
The site was historically grazed by livestock, rabbits and deer, and its water supply comes from a well dug more than a century ago by the “Diver/Diviner” Cullas of Metherell. A severe drought had left surrounding pastures scorched, but recent rain has raised the well’s level and kept newly excavated ponds from drying out completely. The owners, James and Mary, have overseen the planting of indigenous species, the transplantation of cuttings, and the protection of saplings—particularly oak seedlings growing beneath a 200-year-old spreading oak.
Ecological Outcomes
Vegetation now includes thorny hedgerows of purple sloes, blackberries, scarlet hips and haws, alongside planted trees that are “tall and vigorous.” Open patches host seeding knapweed, grasses, plantains and rattle, while guelder rose, spindle, holly and buckthorn produce berries. The ponds, lined with clay and stony spoil, support water-weeds and attract swallows that feed regularly. Observations recorded by trip cameras note regular visits by foxes, roe deer and barn owls; moorhens, voles, shrews and weasels are also documented. Birdlife includes two young buzzards, goldfinches, clouded yellows and other species that were scarce during the drought.
Community Involvement and Management Practices
James and Mary actively manage the site by transplanting native plants, staking and guarding saplings, and maintaining the ponds. Their hands-on approach is complemented by a local small-mammal society that monitors vole, shrew and weasel populations, providing ongoing data on the rewilding’s progress.
Future Outlook
While the recent rains have improved water availability, the article notes continued caution in water use. The ongoing presence of diverse flora and fauna suggests that, if current management practices are sustained, the Larkrise rewilding project could serve as a model for restoring similarly degraded agricultural land in the region.
