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Meet the bison rangers of the Wilder Blean project and learn about what their role entails. This project is the first of it's kind in the UK, introducing european bison to an ancient woodland to restore natural processes. The bison rangers are out on site everyday with a diverse role, from fixing fences and leading tours to ecological monitoring and welfare checking all the animals.

What is a bison and conservation grazing ranger? 

The Bison team is based at West Blean and Thornden Woods, a Site of Scientific Interest north of Canterbury. This is where The Wilder Blean Project is run from, aiming to restore natural processes through the use of ancient cattle, pony and pig breeds, as well as European Bison. The Bison were introduced in partnership with The Wildwood Trust. The Bison rangers are responsible for the care and management of this ancient woodland and all the animals that help maintain it. 

Our job is very varied, including aiding with the large monitoring scheme, leading  tours for the public and running practical task days with our amazing volunteers. Each day is different and we are always problem solving to keep improving the quality of the site, health and safety and ways to engage with our visitors.

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Hannah Mackins

Having always felt deeply connected to nature and wildlife, Hannah felt urged to act upon the plight of endangered species conservation - she was thrilled to find out that she could turn her passions into a career.

Hannah has a degree in Wildlife Conservation from the University of Kent.  

 At various wildlife sanctuaries and rescue centres around the world, Hannah has worked as a Biologist and Rehabilitation Assistant as well as being a zookeeper.  

When she's not tracking the Blean bison, Hannah can be found teaching Yoga classes or travelling. 24 countries and counting! 

Favourite animal 

African Elephant 

One hope for the future? 

That the next generation grow up seeing more biodiverse world that is more compassionate towards wildlife.  

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Zsuzsanna Bird

Heidi Aguirregoicoa

Since childhood, the natural world has always filled Heidi with wonder and a hunger for knowledge. Learning about topics like habitat loss and species extinctions at a young age set her on the conservation path. After hearing about the decline of bee species, Heidi made her own 'Be Good to Bees' Club at primary school to spread awareness. Many years later she strayed from Yorkshire to undertake a degree in Wildlife Conservation from the University of Kent.