Wilder: How Rewilding is Transforming Conservation and Changing the World

(Hardback, Unabridged edition)

Available Formats

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

Rewilding is a relatively new approach to wildlife conservation that, while in its infancy, has incredible potential. It offers a spectrum of conservation options; at one end is the passive approach, focusing on ecological restoration in essence, simply leaving land to recover naturally. At the other end of the spectrum is what might be termed active rewilding, where not only are habitats actively restored, but keystone species are reintroduced to quicken the process of recovery. Rewilding is a multidimensional process, and we are still watching the early stages of its evolution. Wilder makes a closer look at the practicalities, emphasising proactive efforts by passionate conservationists, usually involving the reintroduction of lost species to areas where theyve gone locally extinct; active rewilding often involves high stakes, from large mammal translocations to ambitious wildlife corridors through densely populated areas. While most of our focus is on rewilding in the UK and parts of Europe, rewilding is beginning to take root all over the world, including in unexpected places and, uniquely, this book takes a global approach; in a timely and exciting addition to a wider conversation about our relationship with the wild, Millie Kerr takes readers on a global journey of discovery, from the return of lions to Gabon to the first-ever pangolin reintroduction project, to the transformation-by-Jaguar of an Argentine national park. Hope permeates every page of this book. By focusing on conservation success stories and showing that there are bands of determined conservationists fighting for a better future, Wilder will educate readers while inspiring them to become part of the solution.

Reviews

Millie Kerr's Wilder stands apart from the pack Wilder is overwhelmingly dedicated to sharing the positives and successes of animal reintroductions, and Kerrs personal narratives are just one reason why it is a very readable and enjoyable tale. * New Scientist *
There are many rewilding programs in many countries, and Kerr navigates this complex world, using stories to shine light on the heroic people fighting to restore endangered or locally extinct species to protected environments. A must-read for those concerned about biodiversity loss. * Dr Jane Goodall *
Just as each species has its niche, so we too can and must find our own way into rewilding ourselves and the world around us. This book is a compelling and at times personal guidebook for that journey. * Geographical magazine *
Millie Kerr is the perfect guide to take us on a tour of the rewilding landscape. Her deep personal connection with nature and meticulous research inform a story of hope featuring a cast of fascinating characters (both human and animal). Wilder is essential reading for anyone interested in the future of conservation. * Lucy Cooke, author and broadcaster *
Millie Kerr gives us a vivid portrait of the people and ideas shaping rewilding. In coming decades, there will be no more important cause. Traditional conservation is no longer enough; now we must rewild the world. * Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods *
Rewilding wisdom guides Millie Kerr's voyage around pioneering eco-projects. * Country & Town House *
A real eye-opener for what could be achieved in Britain. * Rewilding Britain *

Author Bio

Millie Kerr is a lawyer-turned-writer, focusing on wildlife conservation. After time in legal practice, Millie decided to instead pursue her passions of storytelling, travel, and wildlife conservation, and for the last ten years, she has worked as a freelance journalist and conservation communicator. Her creative essays and reported articles have appeared in dozens of American and British publications, including The Economist, the Guardian, National Geographic, New York Times, Popular Science, and Wall Street Journal. Millie has also worked for Panthera and the Wildlife Conservation Society; and has been retained by African Parks, Elephant Family, and Fauna & Flora International as an external consultant. She is a skilled wildlife photographer and has won several awards for her images. A Royal Geographical Society fellow, Millie holds a B.A. in history from Wake Forest University, a J.D. in law from The University of Texas, and an MPhil in conservation leadership from the University of Cambridge, where she wrote her dissertation on conservation storytelling while collaborating with the Cambridge Conservation Initiative's arts, science and conservation programme. A native of San Antonio, Texas, Millie is based in London, where she has lived on/off since 2001. milliekerr.com