Animal rangers have described a bison matriarch reintroduced to the wild as a “true pioneer” following her death.
Her arrival at the woodland in Kent from the Highlands in July 2022, with two other bison, was part of the Wildwood Trust and Kent Wildlife Trust’s (KWT) Blean Bison project, which aims to bring the species back to the UK.
The matriarch has died aged 21. Picture: Kent Wildlife Trust
It led to her becoming the first bison to roam freely in the British countryside for thousands of years.
In total, the herd which resides in the forestry area between Canterbury and Herne Bay, now consists of nine bison – five calves and four adults – with a new lead female emerging naturally.
Seven calves have also been born in the Blean to date, including three this season.
Bosses say the matriarch, who did not have a name, led the herd and helped shape the woodland through natural behaviours prior to her death aged 21.
KWT’s bison ranger, Heidi Aguirregoicoa, said: “The matriarch and the herd she leaves behind have shown us what’s possible when we trust these natural processes.
“They’ve proved that our landscapes are ready for this kind of wilding.
The matriarch helped lead the herd to reach a total of nine bison plus other calves born which have been relocated elsewhere. Picture: Kent Wildlife Trust
“Other initiatives can now move forward with real evidence and confidence.”
The herd was brought to West Blean and Thornden Woods to boost biodiversity and help the landscape build resilience against a changing climate.
The animals currently roam 123 acres of woodland, with access set to expand to 500 via the UK’s first bison bridges.
Conservationists say bison act like natural land managers by creating open spaces, stripping bark from trees and clearing thick plants so other wildlife can flourish.
The matriarch also played a key role in thinning the once-overgrown rhododendron, letting sunlight back into the woods and helping many different species return.
Wildwood Trust’s bison and rewilding ranger, Donovan Wright, added: “The matriarch shaped the project from the very first day.
The matriarch was the “cornerstone” of bison rewilding in the UK. Picture: Kent Wildlife Trust
“She was the rock, the foundation of the herd, and the cornerstone of bison rewilding in the UK.
“Her calmness and steady nature spread through the herd, changing how they interacted with one another, with the landscape, and with us.
“When she led, they settled. When she paused, they listened.
“It was humbling watching her share that deep, ancient bison wisdom.
“She was more than the herd’s leader and teacher, she was ours, and she showed us what’s possible.”
Visitors to Wildwood have also paid tribute following the announcement.
One, Anna Collins, said: “It is sad she has passed but she has left such a wonderful legacy.”
Linda Meadows added: “Over the rainbow – gone but will not be forgotten.”