Guest guest Posted November 30, 2007 Report Share Posted November 30, 2007 So - do wolves and lynxes attack people who venture into these quiet places? Jo By Paul Eccleston Last Updated: 3:01pm GMT 29/11/2007 Bringing back animals which were hunted to extinction in Britain - including the wolf, lynx, beaver and wild boar - would not be difficult, according to a new report. A wolf: They were hunted to extinction in the 18th century The animals could be brought back to live free in the wild without posing any great threat to people, crops or the environment, it is claimed. A report from the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at Oxford University (WCRU) said while further work needed to be done on their impact, there was no obvious reason to block their return. The animals roaming free in remote areas would enhance the natural environment and as a bonus they could form the basis of a multi- million pound tourist industry. Wildlife tourism in the UK is thriving particularly in Scotland where the reintroduction of the osprey attracted on average 33,600 visitors between 1998 and 2001 while the Red Kite Centre, Wales attracted 33,350 visitors in 2004. advertisement The possibility of the animals' return is raised in the State of Britain's Mammals report for 2007 Mammals Trust UK, which looks at the challenges wildlife will face in the 21st century. Professor David Macdonald and Dr Dawn Burnham, from the WCRU identified a range of factors including climate change, the spread of infectious diseases, agricultural and forestry practices, and human activity which will all combine to put increasing pressure on the UK's fragile wildlife populations. Earlier this year the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), added 16 new habitats, 8 terrestrial mammals and the common seal to the UK's Priority List of Species and Habitats. The report says that wild boar are already living free and breeding rapidly across several south-eastern countries after escaping from farms. They were a potential threat to people and dogs and caused damage to crops and through rooting to wild flowers, particularly bluebells, and trees. But they also played an important role as ecosystem engineers increasing habitat diversity and in places they were regarded as an asset because they provided sport and meat to the hunting sector. Similarly beaver had also escaped into the wild and one was living quite happily near Oxford. Even in the worst case scenario, where beavers caused damage to trees, the cost would only be tens of thousands of pounds while at best the costs would be negligible. But their presence would contribute to wetland creation helping with consequent water purification and they were useful in flood retention. " The end result appears to be a very healthy balance sheet in favour of reintroducing the beaver, " the report says. Studies surrounding the reintroduction of the wolf to Scotland, where it was hunted to extinction in the 18th century, found that highland farmers were the most likely to be affected because they would lose livestock. A wild boar and piglet: They 'live freely' in the South East But they were not absolutely opposed to the wolf's return as it was 'restoring the balance of nature and preserving Scotland's heritage'. They recognised the value of wildlife tourism and knew they would be compensated if they lost sheep to predation. The studies had found that 1,000 square kilometres could support 25 wolves and that they would keep down deer populations and save the expensive cost of regular culls in Caledonian pine forests. The lynx had disappeared during medieval times because of deforestation, declining deer populations and persecution but all these had now been reversed. The EU Habitats Directive had also stated that the European lynx should be considered for reintroduction. Studies by Aberdeen University had identified two areas in Scotland which would provide suitable habitat for lynx. It had been estimated that current deer populations could support 400 lynx in the Highlands and 50 in the southern Uplands. The report identifies the brown hare, mountain hare, red squirrel, hedgehog, harvest mouse, scottish wildcat and grey seal as all being threatened British mammals whose populations were in decline. One high point has been the recovery of the otter which had suffered severe decline in the latter half of the 20th century because of pollution. But the clean up of rivers had resulted in the otter's recovery and continued expansion. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 30, 2007 Report Share Posted November 30, 2007 there have been a handful of supposed attacks by wolves in all of north america...for the last 400 years........ and thats either because the wolf was starving or because someone was feeding it.... wolves avoid humans....for good reasons...... bring em back....bring em back.... heartwerk Nov 29, 2007 11:39 PM Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK So - do wolves and lynxes attack people who venture into these quiet places? JoBy Paul EcclestonLast Updated: 3:01pm GMT 29/11/2007Bringing back animals which were hunted to extinction in Britain - including the wolf, lynx, beaver and wild boar - would not be difficult, according to a new report.A wolf: They were hunted to extinction in the 18th century The animals could be brought back to live free in the wild without posing any great threat to people, crops or the environment, it is claimed.A report from the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at Oxford University (WCRU) said while further work needed to be done on their impact, there was no obvious reason to block their return.The animals roaming free in remote areas would enhance the natural environment and as a bonus they could form the basis of a multi-million pound tourist industry.Wildlife tourism in the UK is thriving particularly in Scotland where the reintroduction of the osprey attracted on average 33,600 visitors between 1998 and 2001 while the Red Kite Centre, Wales attracted 33,350 visitors in 2004.advertisementThe possibility of the animals' return is raised in the State of Britain's Mammals report for 2007 Mammals Trust UK, which looks at the challenges wildlife will face in the 21st century.Professor David Macdonald and Dr Dawn Burnham, from the WCRU identified a range of factors including climate change, the spread of infectious diseases, agricultural and forestry practices, and human activity which will all combine to put increasing pressure on the UK's fragile wildlife populations.Earlier this year the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), added 16 new habitats, 8 terrestrial mammals and the common seal to the UK's Priority List of Species and Habitats.The report says that wild boar are already living free and breeding rapidly across several south-eastern countries after escaping from farms.They were a potential threat to people and dogs and caused damage to crops and through rooting to wild flowers, particularly bluebells, and trees.But they also played an important role as ecosystem engineers increasing habitat diversity and in places they were regarded as an asset because they provided sport and meat to the hunting sector.Similarly beaver had also escaped into the wild and one was living quite happily near Oxford. Even in the worst case scenario, where beavers caused damage to trees, the cost would only be tens of thousands of pounds while at best the costs would be negligible.But their presence would contribute to wetland creation helping with consequent water purification and they were useful in flood retention."The end result appears to be a very healthy balance sheet in favour of reintroducing the beaver," the report says.Studies surrounding the reintroduction of the wolf to Scotland, where it was hunted to extinction in the 18th century, found that highland farmers were the most likely to be affected because they would lose livestock.A wild boar and piglet: They 'live freely' in the South East But they were not absolutely opposed to the wolf's return as it was 'restoring the balance of nature and preserving Scotland's heritage'.They recognised the value of wildlife tourism and knew they would be compensated if they lost sheep to predation.The studies had found that 1,000 square kilometres could support 25 wolves and that they would keep down deer populations and save the expensive cost of regular culls in Caledonian pine forests.The lynx had disappeared during medieval times because of deforestation, declining deer populations and persecution but all these had now been reversed. The EU Habitats Directive had also stated that the European lynx should be considered for reintroduction.Studies by Aberdeen University had identified two areas in Scotland which would provide suitable habitat for lynx. It had been estimated that current deer populations could support 400 lynx in the Highlands and 50 in the southern Uplands.The report identifies the brown hare, mountain hare, red squirrel, hedgehog, harvest mouse, scottish wildcat and grey seal as all being threatened British mammals whose populations were in decline.One high point has been the recovery of the otter which had suffered severe decline in the latter half of the 20th century because of pollution. But the clean up of rivers had resulted in the otter's recovery and continued expansion. Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance. Confucius Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 30, 2007 Report Share Posted November 30, 2007 very unlikely............. Peter H heartwerk <jo.heartwork Sent: Friday, 30 November, 2007 7:39:13 AM Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK So - do wolves and lynxes attack people who venture into these quiet places? JoBy Paul EcclestonLast Updated: 3:01pm GMT 29/11/2007Bringing back animals which were hunted to extinction in Britain - including the wolf, lynx, beaver and wild boar - would not be difficult, according to a new report.A wolf: They were hunted to extinction in the 18th century The animals could be brought back to live free in the wild without posing any great threat to people, crops or the environment, it is claimed.A report from the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at Oxford University (WCRU) said while further work needed to be done on their impact, there was no obvious reason to block their return.The animals roaming free in remote areas would enhance the natural environment and as a bonus they could form the basis of a multi-million pound tourist industry.Wildlife tourism in the UK is thriving particularly in Scotland where the reintroduction of the osprey attracted on average 33,600 visitors between 1998 and 2001 while the Red Kite Centre, Wales attracted 33,350 visitors in 2004.advertisementThe possibility of the animals' return is raised in the State of Britain's Mammals report for 2007 Mammals Trust UK, which looks at the challenges wildlife will face in the 21st century.Professor David Macdonald and Dr Dawn Burnham, from the WCRU identified a range of factors including climate change, the spread of infectious diseases, agricultural and forestry practices, and human activity which will all combine to put increasing pressure on the UK's fragile wildlife populations.Earlier this year the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), added 16 new habitats, 8 terrestrial mammals and the common seal to the UK's Priority List of Species and Habitats.The report says that wild boar are already living free and breeding rapidly across several south-eastern countries after escaping from farms.They were a potential threat to people and dogs and caused damage to crops and through rooting to wild flowers, particularly bluebells, and trees.But they also played an important role as ecosystem engineers increasing habitat diversity and in places they were regarded as an asset because they provided sport and meat to the hunting sector.Similarly beaver had also escaped into the wild and one was living quite happily near Oxford. Even in the worst case scenario, where beavers caused damage to trees, the cost would only be tens of thousands of pounds while at best the costs would be negligible.But their presence would contribute to wetland creation helping with consequent water purification and they were useful in flood retention."The end result appears to be a very healthy balance sheet in favour of reintroducing the beaver," the report says.Studies surrounding the reintroduction of the wolf to Scotland, where it was hunted to extinction in the 18th century, found that highland farmers were the most likely to be affected because they would lose livestock.A wild boar and piglet: They 'live freely' in the South East But they were not absolutely opposed to the wolf's return as it was 'restoring the balance of nature and preserving Scotland's heritage'.They recognised the value of wildlife tourism and knew they would be compensated if they lost sheep to predation.The studies had found that 1,000 square kilometres could support 25 wolves and that they would keep down deer populations and save the expensive cost of regular culls in Caledonian pine forests.The lynx had disappeared during medieval times because of deforestation, declining deer populations and persecution but all these had now been reversed. The EU Habitats Directive had also stated that the European lynx should be considered for reintroduction.Studies by Aberdeen University had identified two areas in Scotland which would provide suitable habitat for lynx. It had been estimated that current deer populations could support 400 lynx in the Highlands and 50 in the southern Uplands.The report identifies the brown hare, mountain hare, red squirrel, hedgehog, harvest mouse, scottish wildcat and grey seal as all being threatened British mammals whose populations were in decline.One high point has been the recovery of the otter which had suffered severe decline in the latter half of the 20th century because of pollution. But the clean up of rivers had resulted in the otter's recovery and continued expansion. For ideas on reducing your carbon footprint visit For Good this month. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 30, 2007 Report Share Posted November 30, 2007  Would they not attack a couple of Pagans going into the woods at night? Jo - fraggle Friday, November 30, 2007 4:12 PM Re: Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK there have been a handful of supposed attacks by wolves in all of north america...for the last 400 years........ and thats either because the wolf was starving or because someone was feeding it.... wolves avoid humans....for good reasons...... bring em back....bring em back.... heartwerk Nov 29, 2007 11:39 PM Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK So - do wolves and lynxes attack people who venture into these quiet places? JoBy Paul EcclestonLast Updated: 3:01pm GMT 29/11/2007Bringing back animals which were hunted to extinction in Britain - including the wolf, lynx, beaver and wild boar - would not be difficult, according to a new report.A wolf: They were hunted to extinction in the 18th century The animals could be brought back to live free in the wild without posing any great threat to people, crops or the environment, it is claimed.A report from the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at Oxford University (WCRU) said while further work needed to be done on their impact, there was no obvious reason to block their return.The animals roaming free in remote areas would enhance the natural environment and as a bonus they could form the basis of a multi-million pound tourist industry.Wildlife tourism in the UK is thriving particularly in Scotland where the reintroduction of the osprey attracted on average 33,600 visitors between 1998 and 2001 while the Red Kite Centre, Wales attracted 33,350 visitors in 2004.advertisementThe possibility of the animals' return is raised in the State of Britain's Mammals report for 2007 Mammals Trust UK, which looks at the challenges wildlife will face in the 21st century.Professor David Macdonald and Dr Dawn Burnham, from the WCRU identified a range of factors including climate change, the spread of infectious diseases, agricultural and forestry practices, and human activity which will all combine to put increasing pressure on the UK's fragile wildlife populations.Earlier this year the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), added 16 new habitats, 8 terrestrial mammals and the common seal to the UK's Priority List of Species and Habitats.The report says that wild boar are already living free and breeding rapidly across several south-eastern countries after escaping from farms.They were a potential threat to people and dogs and caused damage to crops and through rooting to wild flowers, particularly bluebells, and trees.But they also played an important role as ecosystem engineers increasing habitat diversity and in places they were regarded as an asset because they provided sport and meat to the hunting sector.Similarly beaver had also escaped into the wild and one was living quite happily near Oxford. Even in the worst case scenario, where beavers caused damage to trees, the cost would only be tens of thousands of pounds while at best the costs would be negligible.But their presence would contribute to wetland creation helping with consequent water purification and they were useful in flood retention."The end result appears to be a very healthy balance sheet in favour of reintroducing the beaver," the report says.Studies surrounding the reintroduction of the wolf to Scotland, where it was hunted to extinction in the 18th century, found that highland farmers were the most likely to be affected because they would lose livestock.A wild boar and piglet: They 'live freely' in the South East But they were not absolutely opposed to the wolf's return as it was 'restoring the balance of nature and preserving Scotland's heritage'.They recognised the value of wildlife tourism and knew they would be compensated if they lost sheep to predation.The studies had found that 1,000 square kilometres could support 25 wolves and that they would keep down deer populations and save the expensive cost of regular culls in Caledonian pine forests.The lynx had disappeared during medieval times because of deforestation, declining deer populations and persecution but all these had now been reversed. The EU Habitats Directive had also stated that the European lynx should be considered for reintroduction.Studies by Aberdeen University had identified two areas in Scotland which would provide suitable habitat for lynx. It had been estimated that current deer populations could support 400 lynx in the Highlands and 50 in the southern Uplands.The report identifies the brown hare, mountain hare, red squirrel, hedgehog, harvest mouse, scottish wildcat and grey seal as all being threatened British mammals whose populations were in decline.One high point has been the recovery of the otter which had suffered severe decline in the latter half of the 20th century because of pollution. But the clean up of rivers had resulted in the otter's recovery and continued expansion. Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance. Confucius Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 30, 2007 Report Share Posted November 30, 2007  I know it would be unlikely that they would come where you live but I can't help thinking of the woman in Bulgaria (?) last week that was attacked and killed by a pack of wild dogs. We often go into the woods and really quiet places miles away from human habitation - and I do find it worrying. Jo - Peter VV Friday, November 30, 2007 7:30 PM Re: Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK very unlikely............. Peter H heartwerk <jo.heartwork Sent: Friday, 30 November, 2007 7:39:13 AM Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK So - do wolves and lynxes attack people who venture into these quiet places? JoBy Paul EcclestonLast Updated: 3:01pm GMT 29/11/2007Bringing back animals which were hunted to extinction in Britain - including the wolf, lynx, beaver and wild boar - would not be difficult, according to a new report.A wolf: They were hunted to extinction in the 18th century The animals could be brought back to live free in the wild without posing any great threat to people, crops or the environment, it is claimed.A report from the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at Oxford University (WCRU) said while further work needed to be done on their impact, there was no obvious reason to block their return.The animals roaming free in remote areas would enhance the natural environment and as a bonus they could form the basis of a multi-million pound tourist industry.Wildlife tourism in the UK is thriving particularly in Scotland where the reintroduction of the osprey attracted on average 33,600 visitors between 1998 and 2001 while the Red Kite Centre, Wales attracted 33,350 visitors in 2004.advertisementThe possibility of the animals' return is raised in the State of Britain's Mammals report for 2007 Mammals Trust UK, which looks at the challenges wildlife will face in the 21st century.Professor David Macdonald and Dr Dawn Burnham, from the WCRU identified a range of factors including climate change, the spread of infectious diseases, agricultural and forestry practices, and human activity which will all combine to put increasing pressure on the UK's fragile wildlife populations.Earlier this year the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), added 16 new habitats, 8 terrestrial mammals and the common seal to the UK's Priority List of Species and Habitats.The report says that wild boar are already living free and breeding rapidly across several south-eastern countries after escaping from farms.They were a potential threat to people and dogs and caused damage to crops and through rooting to wild flowers, particularly bluebells, and trees.But they also played an important role as ecosystem engineers increasing habitat diversity and in places they were regarded as an asset because they provided sport and meat to the hunting sector.Similarly beaver had also escaped into the wild and one was living quite happily near Oxford. Even in the worst case scenario, where beavers caused damage to trees, the cost would only be tens of thousands of pounds while at best the costs would be negligible.But their presence would contribute to wetland creation helping with consequent water purification and they were useful in flood retention."The end result appears to be a very healthy balance sheet in favour of reintroducing the beaver," the report says.Studies surrounding the reintroduction of the wolf to Scotland, where it was hunted to extinction in the 18th century, found that highland farmers were the most likely to be affected because they would lose livestock.A wild boar and piglet: They 'live freely' in the South East But they were not absolutely opposed to the wolf's return as it was 'restoring the balance of nature and preserving Scotland's heritage'.They recognised the value of wildlife tourism and knew they would be compensated if they lost sheep to predation.The studies had found that 1,000 square kilometres could support 25 wolves and that they would keep down deer populations and save the expensive cost of regular culls in Caledonian pine forests.The lynx had disappeared during medieval times because of deforestation, declining deer populations and persecution but all these had now been reversed. The EU Habitats Directive had also stated that the European lynx should be considered for reintroduction.Studies by Aberdeen University had identified two areas in Scotland which would provide suitable habitat for lynx. It had been estimated that current deer populations could support 400 lynx in the Highlands and 50 in the southern Uplands.The report identifies the brown hare, mountain hare, red squirrel, hedgehog, harvest mouse, scottish wildcat and grey seal as all being threatened British mammals whose populations were in decline.One high point has been the recovery of the otter which had suffered severe decline in the latter half of the 20th century because of pollution. But the clean up of rivers had resulted in the otter's recovery and continued expansion. For ideas on reducing your carbon footprint visit For Good this month. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 30, 2007 Report Share Posted November 30, 2007 doubtful wolves have a bad name is all.. lil red riding hood... just like pagans often have a bad rap jo Nov 30, 2007 3:31 PM Re: Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK  Would they not attack a couple of Pagans going into the woods at night? Jo - fraggle Friday, November 30, 2007 4:12 PM Re: Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK there have been a handful of supposed attacks by wolves in all of north america...for the last 400 years........ and thats either because the wolf was starving or because someone was feeding it.... wolves avoid humans....for good reasons...... bring em back....bring em back.... heartwerk Nov 29, 2007 11:39 PM Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK So - do wolves and lynxes attack people who venture into these quiet places? JoBy Paul EcclestonLast Updated: 3:01pm GMT 29/11/2007Bringing back animals which were hunted to extinction in Britain - including the wolf, lynx, beaver and wild boar - would not be difficult, according to a new report.A wolf: They were hunted to extinction in the 18th century The animals could be brought back to live free in the wild without posing any great threat to people, crops or the environment, it is claimed.A report from the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at Oxford University (WCRU) said while further work needed to be done on their impact, there was no obvious reason to block their return.The animals roaming free in remote areas would enhance the natural environment and as a bonus they could form the basis of a multi-million pound tourist industry.Wildlife tourism in the UK is thriving particularly in Scotland where the reintroduction of the osprey attracted on average 33,600 visitors between 1998 and 2001 while the Red Kite Centre, Wales attracted 33,350 visitors in 2004.advertisementThe possibility of the animals' return is raised in the State of Britain's Mammals report for 2007 Mammals Trust UK, which looks at the challenges wildlife will face in the 21st century.Professor David Macdonald and Dr Dawn Burnham, from the WCRU identified a range of factors including climate change, the spread of infectious diseases, agricultural and forestry practices, and human activity which will all combine to put increasing pressure on the UK's fragile wildlife populations.Earlier this year the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), added 16 new habitats, 8 terrestrial mammals and the common seal to the UK's Priority List of Species and Habitats.The report says that wild boar are already living free and breeding rapidly across several south-eastern countries after escaping from farms.They were a potential threat to people and dogs and caused damage to crops and through rooting to wild flowers, particularly bluebells, and trees.But they also played an important role as ecosystem engineers increasing habitat diversity and in places they were regarded as an asset because they provided sport and meat to the hunting sector.Similarly beaver had also escaped into the wild and one was living quite happily near Oxford. Even in the worst case scenario, where beavers caused damage to trees, the cost would only be tens of thousands of pounds while at best the costs would be negligible.But their presence would contribute to wetland creation helping with consequent water purification and they were useful in flood retention."The end result appears to be a very healthy balance sheet in favour of reintroducing the beaver," the report says.Studies surrounding the reintroduction of the wolf to Scotland, where it was hunted to extinction in the 18th century, found that highland farmers were the most likely to be affected because they would lose livestock.A wild boar and piglet: They 'live freely' in the South East But they were not absolutely opposed to the wolf's return as it was 'restoring the balance of nature and preserving Scotland's heritage'.They recognised the value of wildlife tourism and knew they would be compensated if they lost sheep to predation.The studies had found that 1,000 square kilometres could support 25 wolves and that they would keep down deer populations and save the expensive cost of regular culls in Caledonian pine forests.The lynx had disappeared during medieval times because of deforestation, declining deer populations and persecution but all these had now been reversed. The EU Habitats Directive had also stated that the European lynx should be considered for reintroduction.Studies by Aberdeen University had identified two areas in Scotland which would provide suitable habitat for lynx. It had been estimated that current deer populations could support 400 lynx in the Highlands and 50 in the southern Uplands.The report identifies the brown hare, mountain hare, red squirrel, hedgehog, harvest mouse, scottish wildcat and grey seal as all being threatened British mammals whose populations were in decline.One high point has been the recovery of the otter which had suffered severe decline in the latter half of the 20th century because of pollution. But the clean up of rivers had resulted in the otter's recovery and continued expansion.Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance. Confucius Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance. Confucius Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 30, 2007 Report Share Posted November 30, 2007 wild dogs are just that....a domesticated critters allowed to go feral wild dogs don't have a place in the ecosystem (unless they happen to be one of the few remain ing species of wild dogs) wolves fear humans jo Nov 30, 2007 3:33 PM Re: Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK  I know it would be unlikely that they would come where you live but I can't help thinking of the woman in Bulgaria (?) last week that was attacked and killed by a pack of wild dogs. We often go into the woods and really quiet places miles away from human habitation - and I do find it worrying. Jo - Peter VV Friday, November 30, 2007 7:30 PM Re: Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK very unlikely............. Peter H heartwerk <jo.heartwork > Sent: Friday, 30 November, 2007 7:39:13 AM Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK So - do wolves and lynxes attack people who venture into these quiet places? JoBy Paul EcclestonLast Updated: 3:01pm GMT 29/11/2007Bringing back animals which were hunted to extinction in Britain - including the wolf, lynx, beaver and wild boar - would not be difficult, according to a new report.A wolf: They were hunted to extinction in the 18th century The animals could be brought back to live free in the wild without posing any great threat to people, crops or the environment, it is claimed.A report from the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at Oxford University (WCRU) said while further work needed to be done on their impact, there was no obvious reason to block their return.The animals roaming free in remote areas would enhance the natural environment and as a bonus they could form the basis of a multi-million pound tourist industry.Wildlife tourism in the UK is thriving particularly in Scotland where the reintroduction of the osprey attracted on average 33,600 visitors between 1998 and 2001 while the Red Kite Centre, Wales attracted 33,350 visitors in 2004.advertisementThe possibility of the animals' return is raised in the State of Britain's Mammals report for 2007 Mammals Trust UK, which looks at the challenges wildlife will face in the 21st century.Professor David Macdonald and Dr Dawn Burnham, from the WCRU identified a range of factors including climate change, the spread of infectious diseases, agricultural and forestry practices, and human activity which will all combine to put increasing pressure on the UK's fragile wildlife populations.Earlier this year the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), added 16 new habitats, 8 terrestrial mammals and the common seal to the UK's Priority List of Species and Habitats.The report says that wild boar are already living free and breeding rapidly across several south-eastern countries after escaping from farms.They were a potential threat to people and dogs and caused damage to crops and through rooting to wild flowers, particularly bluebells, and trees.But they also played an important role as ecosystem engineers increasing habitat diversity and in places they were regarded as an asset because they provided sport and meat to the hunting sector.Similarly beaver had also escaped into the wild and one was living quite happily near Oxford. Even in the worst case scenario, where beavers caused damage to trees, the cost would only be tens of thousands of pounds while at best the costs would be negligible.But their presence would contribute to wetland creation helping with consequent water purification and they were useful in flood retention."The end result appears to be a very healthy balance sheet in favour of reintroducing the beaver," the report says.Studies surrounding the reintroduction of the wolf to Scotland, where it was hunted to extinction in the 18th century, found that highland farmers were the most likely to be affected because they would lose livestock.A wild boar and piglet: They 'live freely' in the South East But they were not absolutely opposed to the wolf's return as it was 'restoring the balance of nature and preserving Scotland's heritage'.They recognised the value of wildlife tourism and knew they would be compensated if they lost sheep to predation.The studies had found that 1,000 square kilometres could support 25 wolves and that they would keep down deer populations and save the expensive cost of regular culls in Caledonian pine forests.The lynx had disappeared during medieval times because of deforestation, declining deer populations and persecution but all these had now been reversed. The EU Habitats Directive had also stated that the European lynx should be considered for reintroduction.Studies by Aberdeen University had identified two areas in Scotland which would provide suitable habitat for lynx. It had been estimated that current deer populations could support 400 lynx in the Highlands and 50 in the southern Uplands.The report identifies the brown hare, mountain hare, red squirrel, hedgehog, harvest mouse, scottish wildcat and grey seal as all being threatened British mammals whose populations were in decline.One high point has been the recovery of the otter which had suffered severe decline in the latter half of the 20th century because of pollution. But the clean up of rivers had resulted in the otter's recovery and continued expansion. For ideas on reducing your carbon footprint visit For Good this month. Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance. Confucius Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 1, 2007 Report Share Posted December 1, 2007 I was almost cornered by a pack of dogs on a country road in Oklahoma or Missouri. I stopped to look at some butterfly weed at the side of the road, and 5-7 dogs started walking slowly toward me. They were between me and the car but still across the street, so I looked around and picked up a handful of sand, just in case. Luckily, another carful of people from the same herb field trip happened to drive along the same road at that moment. They saw what was happening and maneuvered their car between me and the dog pack. I got in my car and lived to tell the tale. I've seen bears on the trail in several places -- central and southern Oregon, Wyoming. I've seen a coyote 50 yards above the trail, along a ridge. None of the wild animals were interested in approaching people (well, except for the bear who was curious about the lone camper in the sleeping bag, 30 feet from where the rest of us were bus-camping). Most of them looked, made sure not to turn their back on the humans, and slowly moved away. The only time I've felt uneasy in remote places was when some hikers in camo, carrying guns, passed me on the trail. At 8:33 PM +0000 11/30/07, jo wrote: ? I know it would be unlikely that they would come where you live but I can't help thinking of the woman in Bulgaria (?) last week that was attacked and killed by a pack of wild dogs. We often go into the woods and really quiet places miles away from human habitation - and I do find it worrying. Jo - Peter VV very unlikely............. heartwerk <jo.heartwork So - do wolves and lynxes attack people who venture into these quiet places? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 1, 2007 Report Share Posted December 1, 2007 as I said very unlikely, two totally different animals. Wolves will go out of their way to avoid humans........ Peter H jo <jo.heartwork Sent: Friday, 30 November, 2007 8:33:08 PMRe: Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK  I know it would be unlikely that they would come where you live but I can't help thinking of the woman in Bulgaria (?) last week that was attacked and killed by a pack of wild dogs. We often go into the woods and really quiet places miles away from human habitation - and I do find it worrying. Jo - Peter VV @gro ups.com Friday, November 30, 2007 7:30 PM Re: Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK very unlikely.... ......... Peter H heartwerk <jo.heartwork@ gmail.com>@gro ups.comFriday, 30 November, 2007 7:39:13 AM Wolf and lynx could be re-introduced to UK So - do wolves and lynxes attack people who venture into these quiet places? JoBy Paul EcclestonLast Updated: 3:01pm GMT 29/11/2007Bringing back animals which were hunted to extinction in Britain - including the wolf, lynx, beaver and wild boar - would not be difficult, according to a new report.A wolf: They were hunted to extinction in the 18th century The animals could be brought back to live free in the wild without posing any great threat to people, crops or the environment, it is claimed.A report from the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at Oxford University (WCRU) said while further work needed to be done on their impact, there was no obvious reason to block their return.The animals roaming free in remote areas would enhance the natural environment and as a bonus they could form the basis of a multi-million pound tourist industry.Wildlife tourism in the UK is thriving particularly in Scotland where the reintroduction of the osprey attracted on average 33,600 visitors between 1998 and 2001 while the Red Kite Centre, Wales attracted 33,350 visitors in 2004.advertisementThe possibility of the animals' return is raised in the State of Britain's Mammals report for 2007 Mammals Trust UK, which looks at the challenges wildlife will face in the 21st century.Professor David Macdonald and Dr Dawn Burnham, from the WCRU identified a range of factors including climate change, the spread of infectious diseases, agricultural and forestry practices, and human activity which will all combine to put increasing pressure on the UK's fragile wildlife populations.Earlier this year the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), added 16 new habitats, 8 terrestrial mammals and the common seal to the UK's Priority List of Species and Habitats.The report says that wild boar are already living free and breeding rapidly across several south-eastern countries after escaping from farms.They were a potential threat to people and dogs and caused damage to crops and through rooting to wild flowers, particularly bluebells, and trees.But they also played an important role as ecosystem engineers increasing habitat diversity and in places they were regarded as an asset because they provided sport and meat to the hunting sector.Similarly beaver had also escaped into the wild and one was living quite happily near Oxford. Even in the worst case scenario, where beavers caused damage to trees, the cost would only be tens of thousands of pounds while at best the costs would be negligible.But their presence would contribute to wetland creation helping with consequent water purification and they were useful in flood retention."The end result appears to be a very healthy balance sheet in favour of reintroducing the beaver," the report says.Studies surrounding the reintroduction of the wolf to Scotland, where it was hunted to extinction in the 18th century, found that highland farmers were the most likely to be affected because they would lose livestock.A wild boar and piglet: They 'live freely' in the South East But they were not absolutely opposed to the wolf's return as it was 'restoring the balance of nature and preserving Scotland's heritage'.They recognised the value of wildlife tourism and knew they would be compensated if they lost sheep to predation.The studies had found that 1,000 square kilometres could support 25 wolves and that they would keep down deer populations and save the expensive cost of regular culls in Caledonian pine forests.The lynx had disappeared during medieval times because of deforestation, declining deer populations and persecution but all these had now been reversed. The EU Habitats Directive had also stated that the European lynx should be considered for reintroduction.Studies by Aberdeen University had identified two areas in Scotland which would provide suitable habitat for lynx. It had been estimated that current deer populations could support 400 lynx in the Highlands and 50 in the southern Uplands.The report identifies the brown hare, mountain hare, red squirrel, hedgehog, harvest mouse, scottish wildcat and grey seal as all being threatened British mammals whose populations were in decline.One high point has been the recovery of the otter which had suffered severe decline in the latter half of the 20th century because of pollution. But the clean up of rivers had resulted in the otter's recovery and continued expansion. For ideas on reducing your carbon footprint visit For Good this month. Answers - Get better answers from someone who knows. Try it now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 4, 2007 Report Share Posted December 4, 2007 The dogs must have been scary! Jo , yarrow wrote: > > I was almost cornered by a pack of dogs on a country road in Oklahoma > or Missouri. I stopped to look at some butterfly weed at the side of > the road, and 5-7 dogs started walking slowly toward me. They were > between me and the car but still across the street, so I looked > around and picked up a handful of sand, just in case. Luckily, > another carful of people from the same herb field trip happened to > drive along the same road at that moment. They saw what was happening > and maneuvered their car between me and the dog pack. I got in my car > and lived to tell the tale. > > I've seen bears on the trail in several places -- central and > southern Oregon, Wyoming. I've seen a coyote 50 yards above the > trail, along a ridge. None of the wild animals were interested in > approaching people (well, except for the bear who was curious about > the lone camper in the sleeping bag, 30 feet from where the rest of > us were bus-camping). Most of them looked, made sure not to turn > their back on the humans, and slowly moved away. The only time I've > felt uneasy in remote places was when some hikers in camo, carrying > guns, passed me on the trail. > > > At 8:33 PM +0000 11/30/07, jo wrote: > ? > I know it would be unlikely that they would come where you live but I > can't help thinking of the woman in Bulgaria (?) last week that was > attacked and killed by a pack of wild dogs. We often go into the > woods and really quiet places miles away from human habitation - and > I do find it worrying. > > Jo > > - > <swpgh01Peter VV > > very unlikely............. > > > heartwerk <<jo.heartworkjo.heartwork > > So - do wolves and lynxes attack people who venture into these quiet > places? > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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