Steve Beech

Three white storks have been released into a purpose-built enclosure at Willington Wetlands in Derbyshire, marking the birds’ return to the region after more than 600 years. Derbyshire Wildlife Trust spent more than £300,000 on the predator-proof facility, hoping that a resident nesting pair will attract passing storks and encourage future breeding. The project follows the reintroduction of beavers and the return of other species to the site, and will involve local events and volunteering aimed at supporting wetland restoration, biodiversity and community engagement with nature.

Three crossbreed pigs have been introduced to Lea Wood nature reserve in Derbyshire to improve biodiversity by breaking down dense vegetation and creating varied microhabitats. Derbyshire Wildlife Trust aims to replicate ecological processes once performed by native wild boar, enabling dormant plant species to flourish and attracting wildlife such as insects, birds and small mammals. Volunteers will support daily monitoring, welfare checks and ecological surveys to assess habitat changes and build evidence for future grazing-system integration.