In a world where biodiversity is rapidly declining, rewilding efforts have become a beacon of hope, offering a glimpse into how ecosystems can be restored to their former glory. One such ambitious rewilding project is taking place at Broughton Sanctuary, recently included in the Rough Guide to Rewilding in Britain as one of 15 special places to reconnect with nature.

Here, the introduction of three Iron Age pigs marks a significant milestone, not just for the Sanctuary but for rewilding efforts nationwide. The choice of these pigs as a keystone species—a species that has a disproportionately large impact on its environment relative to its abundance—highlights the innovative approach being taken to restore and revitalize this unique landscape.

Witness this rewilding journey in action, watch Broughton Sanctuary’s video documenting the introduction of these remarkable animals.

What is Rewilding?

Rewilding is a conservation strategy aimed at restoring ecosystems to their natural, uncultivated state. This often involves the reintroduction of species that have been lost or driven out of an area, allowing nature to take its course without intensive human intervention. The ultimate goal is to create self-sustaining habitats where flora and fauna can thrive, increasing biodiversity and creating more resilient ecosystems.

Broughton Sanctuary: A Haven for Nature

Broughton Sanctuary is a sprawling 3,000-acre estate that has embraced rewilding as a core part of its mission. The sanctuary’s approach is grounded in the belief that humans can coexist harmoniously with nature, and that by stepping back and allowing natural processes to unfold, we can restore balance to our environment. The introduction of Iron Age pigs is one of the first major steps in this process, chosen for their potential to act as ecological engineers within the landscape.

The Role of Iron Age Pigs

Iron Age pigs are a hybrid breed, a cross between domestic pigs and wild boar, bred to closely resemble the ancient pigs that roamed Europe thousands of years ago. These animals are hardy, intelligent, and perfectly suited to the task at hand: transforming the landscape in ways that promote ecological diversity.

Pigs are natural foragers, using their powerful snouts to root through the soil in search of food. This behaviour, known as “rooting,” has profound effects on the environment. By disturbing the soil, pigs help to aerate it, promoting the growth of a variety of plant species. Their rooting also creates microhabitats—small, disturbed patches where seeds can germinate and insects can thrive. In essence, these pigs are natural landscapers, creating a mosaic of habitats that benefit a wide range of species.

Keystone Species: Why They Matter

A keystone species is one whose impact on its environment is significant enough that its presence—or absence—can alter the entire ecosystem. The introduction of Iron Age pigs as the first keystone species at Broughton Sanctuary is a strategic move, aimed at catalysing a chain reaction of ecological restoration. By disturbing the ground, these pigs create opportunities for other species to flourish, including plants, insects, birds, and mammals. Over time, this can lead to the reestablishment of a more complex and resilient ecosystem.

The Bigger Picture

The rewilding project at Broughton Sanctuary is about more than just the introduction of pigs—it’s a statement about the future of conservation. As the world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, projects like this offer a blueprint for how we can restore and protect our natural heritage. By embracing the concept of keystone species and allowing natural processes to guide the restoration, Broughton Sanctuary is not just rewilding a landscape—it is rewilding the future.

Three Not So Little Pigs

The arrival of the three Iron Age pigs at Broughton Sanctuary is a small but significant step in a much larger journey. As these animals begin to reshape the landscape, they will pave the way for a more diverse and vibrant ecosystem. Their role as keystone species underscores the importance of innovative conservation strategies in the fight to preserve our planet’s biodiversity. Through projects like this, we can hope to reconnect with nature, restore what has been lost, and ensure that future generations inherit a world as rich and vibrant as the one we have today.