The return of wolves to the Scottish Highlands has long been a subject of debate, but new research from the University of Leeds adds a compelling environmental argument to the discussion. A recent study suggests that reintroducing wolves could significantly expand native woodlands, allowing them to sequester up to one million tonnes of CO₂ annually—an amount equivalent to 5% of the UK’s woodland carbon removal target for 2050.
The study by Spracklen et al. (2025) examined four large regions across Scotland’s Wild Land Areas: the Cairngorms, South-west Highlands, Central Highlands, and North-west Highlands. These locations were selected for their expansive landscapes and low levels of human development, making them strong candidates for a potential wolf reintroduction programme.
Using a Markov predator-prey model (a mathematical simulation that predicts how predator and prey populations interact over time), the researchers simulated how a wolf population might influence red deer densities. Red deer, which currently exist in high numbers across Scotland, are a significant barrier to woodland regeneration due to their heavy browsing on young trees. The model estimated that a population of around 167 wolves across these areas could reduce deer densities below four individuals per square kilometre. This ecological tipping point would allow natural tree growth to take hold.
The study findings
With reduced grazing pressure from deer, native forests could begin to regenerate, increasing carbon sequestration capacity. Over time, this could lead to the recovery of woodland habitats, improved biodiversity, and long-term climate benefits. Unlike tree-planting schemes, which often require significant human intervention, reintroducing wolves into the environment relies on natural processes, with wolves indirectly shaping the landscape through their interactions with prey species.
For those who live with and work with dogs, the study is a reminder of the deep ecological role that canines play in the wild. Wolves and domestic dogs share behavioural traits shaped by evolution, from social bonding to problem-solving skills. Understanding how wolves interact with their environment can provide insights into our own dogs’ instincts, whether in training, behaviour, or enrichment activities.
Beyond the scientific implications, the study also raises broader questions about how we balance conservation efforts with human interests. Reintroducing wolves would require careful planning, public engagement, and strategies to mitigate conflicts, particularly for those in rural communities who rely on livestock farming. Other European countries, such as Germany and France, have already navigated similar challenges as wolves have naturally recolonised parts of their landscapes.
Considerations for the Future
Rewilding is increasingly being recognised as a tool for ecosystem restoration, but it is not without complexity. While the study highlights potential benefits, successful implementation would depend on ecological, social, and political factors. Lessons from past reintroductions, such as the return of wolves to Yellowstone National Park in the United States, demonstrate that predator restoration can have transformative effects on ecosystems. However, each landscape presents unique challenges, requiring tailored approaches to conservation.
Whether or not wolves return to the Highlands, the research highlights a fundamental ecological principle: healthy ecosystems require balance. Understanding these dynamics not only informs conservation efforts but also deepens our appreciation for the relationships between species, including those we share our homes with.
References
- Spracklen, D.V., Chapman, P.J., Fletcher, T., Lane, J.V., Nilsen, E.B., Perks, M., Schofield, L., & Scott, C.E. (2025). Wolf reintroduction to Scotland could support substantial native woodland expansion and associated carbon sequestration. Ecological Solutions and Evidence. Available here
- University of Leeds. (2025, February 17). Reintroducing wolves to Scottish Highlands could help address climate emergency. ScienceDaily. Available here
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