Cornwall Wildlife Trust Releases Three Tamworth Pigs at Helman Tor Nature Reserve in Rewilding Effort

Cornwall Wildlife Trust have released three Tamworth pigs into the Helman Tor Nature Reserve. This initiative forms part of the Trust’s broader effort to reintroduce natural processes that have been lost from the area.

The Tamworth pigs, an ancient breed known for their coarse hair and robustness in harsh environments, are particularly suited for life on the moors at Helman Tor. More than just an addition to the local fauna, these pigs play a crucial ecological role. Their rooting behaviour is expected to encourage the germination of wildflowers, create microclimates favourable for butterflies and reptiles, and enhance foraging opportunities for various bird species. This reintroduction aims to partially fill the ecological gap left by the extinction of wild boars in the region.

As part of the “Rewilding Helman Tor” project, the release of these three pigs is not just about enhancing biodiversity but also about expanding the knowledge and understanding of the Cornwall Wildlife Trust. By observing how the pigs interact with different areas of the reserve, the Trust hopes to gain insights into the benefits these animals can bring to the ecosystem.

The project, supported through online donations, highlights the Trust’s commitment to restoring and maintaining natural habitats. Special thanks were extended to Amelia from The Real Food Garden, the grazier responsible for the pigs, whose contributions have been instrumental in making this project possible.

The Cornwall Wildlife Trust continues to encourage public support and engagement in their rewilding efforts. The success of this project at Helman Tor Nature Reserve could serve as a model for similar ecological restoration endeavours in other parts of the UK and beyond.

Support this work by visiting the Cornwall Wildlife Trust website.