Urban Rewilding Unleashed in Lewes: Dogs Distributing Seeds with Wolf-Inspired Seed-Packed Backpacks

Dogs are taking on an unexpected role in rewilding urban spaces, becoming key players in seed distribution at the Lewes Railway Land nature reserve. This innovative approach, inspired by the natural behaviors of wolves, is breathing new life into the area.

Dogs Distributing Seeds with Wolf-Inspired Backpacks

In a unique rewilding effort, dogs equipped with specially designed seed-packed backpacks filled with native seeds are roaming the Lewes Railway Land nature reserve.

This method mimics the seed dispersal techniques of wolves, which naturally carry seeds in their fur and deposit them over long distances.

The initiative, led by the Lewes Railway Land Wildlife Trust and Wilderlife, aims to reintroduce the ecological impacts of lost species by utilizing the natural behaviors of dogs to spread seeds and foster biodiversity.

The Benefits of Rewilding Practices

The rewilding project incorporates several innovative practices:

• Beaver Coppicing: This technique has introduced light into the woodland, creating islands of timber that form natural pathways and enhance the woodland structure. The increased light and timber on the ground encourage plant growth and create diverse habitats.
• Boar Rootling: By simulating the rooting behavior of wild boars, the project has created numerous mini habitats for insects and facilitated the germination of woodland flowers and grasses. This practice has already shown promise, with some germination occurring and more rewilding efforts planned for the autumn.

Engaging the Community Responsibly

The success of the “wolf reseeding” trial has captured public imagination, but it’s crucial to conduct these activities responsibly. The trial was conducted in a carefully selected and monitored area with locally collected native seeds. Dog owners are advised not to replicate this method independently but to get involved with organized efforts through the Lewes Railway Land Project. Contact Dylan Walker at dylan@railwaylandproject.org for more information on how to participate.

Dylan Walker, who led the project, noted, “We’re really interested in rewilding processes, but they often involve reintroducing big herbivores like bison or wild horses. In a smaller urban nature reserve, it’s really hard to do those things. So, to replicate the effect that those animals have on the ecosystem, we aimed to utilize the vast number of dog walkers that are visiting the nature reserve daily”​

This initiative is boosting biodiversity and reimagining the role of dogs in conservation. By viewing dogs as partners in ecological restoration rather than threats to wildlife, the project is transforming perceptions and demonstrating the potential of collaborative rewilding efforts. The trust’s CEO Helen Meade mentioned, “As they run around sniffing and exploring, they tend to get into nooks and crannies where humans don’t necessarily go.”​ 

Source: Smithsonian Magazine​.

Similar Rewilding Efforts in Chile

A similar project in Chile has seen success with dogs aiding in rewilding efforts. After devastating wildfires in 2017, three border collies equipped with seed-filled backpacks were deployed to help restore the burned landscapes. This innovative approach has shown promising results, as the dogs’ activities have helped to disperse seeds and rejuvenate the affected areas. Source: Fundación Rewilding Chile​​ 

For more on innovative seeding projects, check out how seedballs are helping to reverse Kenya’s deforestation crisis in this BrightVibes article.

Wilder Than Before

Dylan Walker, founder of Wilderlife in Lewes, East Sussex, describes himself as half entrepreneur, half ecologist, and half educator—despite failing maths at school. At Wilderlife, he inspires people to connect with each other and discover ways to make their surroundings wilder than before. Through rewilding workshops, community-driven nature conservation, and ecotourism projects, Dylan believes that fostering a deep cultural connection with nature is essential for the long-term protection of wildlife. He emphasizes positive action and community engagement, inviting others to join Wilderlife on a journey of rediscovery and environmental stewardship.

For more on this inspiring rewilding project, visit the Wilderlife blog.

Credits header image: Railway Land Wildlife Trust / Wilderlife