Lord Somerleyton, Hugh Crossley, is leading 'WildKingdom', an ambitious initiative aiming to dedicate 20% of Britain's land to nature. Inspired by his father's conservation ethos and a desire to combat ecological anxiety, Crossley co-founded the project with Argus Hardy and Olly Birkbeck. WildKingdom utilizes an innovative 'Map of Dreams' to connect and promote nature-friendly farming and gardening practices across the country, encouraging widespread societal change and ecological responsibility.
The Somerleyton Estate itself serves as a testament to the potential of rewilding, transitioning former arable land into thriving parkland and heathland. This transformation, despite initial resistance to tradition and bureaucratic hurdles, has successfully integrated nature-friendly farming techniques, reintroduced native cattle breeds, and created vital habitats for diverse wildlife, including rare bird species. The project emphasizes that ecological restoration can be achieved alongside productive agriculture, challenging conventional rural practices.
WildKingdom expands this vision nationwide, inviting individuals and communities to register their conservation efforts on the 'Map of Dreams'. From urban window boxes to large rural estates, every contribution is valued. The initiative seeks to foster a collective narrative of national restoration, demonstrating that widespread positive environmental change is achievable through collaborative action and a renewed connection with the natural world.
