What Would Re-Introducing Large Predators In Scotland Mean For Campers?

• 30th Jun 2017

The argument is not a new one. Many people believe that we should work towards re-introducing large predators in wilder areas of the UK in order to re-balance the natural ecosystem. They say that precedents from other countries show success stories when it comes to improving biodiversity and recreating an environment lost post industrial revolution. Others say that these predators could pose a risk for humans and human endeavour. Farmers fear the loss of livestock and others have concerns about the safety of those who enjoy the great outdoors. It poses an interesting question, one that could have a bearing on camping holidays in wilder areas.

The wolf, lynx and even the bear were important in the ecosystem of our islands in the past. The modern landscape, much of it denuded of trees and far less biodiverse, was created as a direct result of human interaction and the disappearance of these large predator species. Deer and sheep spreading, unchecked by predation, across huge swathes of the Scottish landscape are responsible for the creation of this more impoverished landscape. The bare hills and valleys of the Highlands should, in a fully functioning ecosystem, be covered with trees. The reintroduction of large predators would keep red deer numbers down naturally and prevent the need for the culls that are the current solution.

We most of us agree that re-foresting is essential for a more sustainable future, but the reintroduction of large predators makes some people have an instinctively negative reaction. Much of that negative reaction comes from a lack of understanding about these large animals and a primal fear, in large part created by our popular culture. The fact of the matter is that when humans live considerately as part of a balanced ecosystem, these animals usually pose little threat to our safety. Large predators usually only become a problem for humans when there is a lack of resources, or when humans have interacted with these creatures in a way that encourages them to move into our spaces. Usually, when they have enough to eat, which they would do here, these creatures are shy and will want to steer well clear of areas of human habitation.

The problems for farmers do need to be addressed. It is likely that there would be some losses of livestock in areas where these large creatures roam. But in a sustainable ecosystem, losses should, scientists say, be minimal and simple measures taken by farmers would help them to continue to rear sheep and other livestock. We do, however, have to ask ourselves some fundamental questions about the sustainable use of land and how we use our landscapes. Many elements of the way we farm now are unsustainable, and major changes will be necessary for a landscape that truly and effectively balances all our needs with the needs of the natural world around us.

For campers, the reintroduction of large predators would mean some changes. Campers venturing deeper into the wilds would have to use sensible precautions – placing food away from their tent and out of reach, for example. Of course this will be nothing new to anyone who has camped in sections of the US, Canada or elsewhere. For the most part, however, the only differences that campers would see would be an increased tree cover and an enrichment of the scenic landscapes around them. If they were lucky, they might even catch a flitting glimpse of one of these majestic creatures. Most likely, campers would not see these creatures at all and would simply be able to enjoy the richness of an ecosystem in balance.