The White Stork Project
The White Stork Project aims to re-establish a wild, breeding population of white storks in the UK, a species that has been absent for centuries. Initiated in 2016, the project focuses on establishing breeding colonies in southern England, particularly at Knepp Estate in West Sussex and Wadhurst Park in East Sussex. These sites provide suitable habitats for the storks, with ample feeding opportunities in rewilded grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands. The project involves releasing captive-bred storks and rehabilitated non-flying individuals from Poland, with the goal of establishing a self-sustaining population of over 50 breeding pairs in southern England by 2030. In 2020, the project celebrated a significant milestone with the first successful fledging of stork chicks in Britain in over 600 years. Beyond reintroduction, the initiative emphasizes habitat restoration, community engagement, and scientific research to foster a deeper connection between people and nature, and to ensure the long-term success of the white stork population in the UK.