Who would have thought that a humble dormouse could rival history’s great landscape designers? The endangered hazel dormouse, with its precise habitat needs, provides a natural blueprint for rewilding efforts across the UK. These adorable creatures thrive in well-connected woodlands, hedgerows, and scrublands filled with native plants, offering food and shelter year-round.
Far more than a conservation effort, creating dormouse-friendly spaces at LettsSafari fosters biodiversity, from pollinators to birds and small mammals. Their reliance on continuous canopies and dense vegetation highlights the importance of habitat connectivity—not just for them but for entire ecosystems.
As a sensitive barometer of environmental health, the dormouse’s presence signals successful restoration, making them a symbol of nature’s recovery. Whether for large-scale rewilding or smaller projects, their story inspires us to embrace their ecological magic.
Discover how these tiny creatures are shaping landscapes and leading the charge for a wilder, greener future as part of LettsSafari's rewilding projects. To see the full article, and support LettsSafari subscribe TODAY!
This week is National Tree Week, the UK's largest annual tree celebration, and we're going to celebrate 4 trees that can make a big impact in your garden or small park. Planting native trees and shrubs is such a vital aspect of rewilding, especially in Britain, where local flora plays an integral role in sustaining the ecosystem.
So here's our fab 4. Each offer unique contributions that benefit birds, insects, and mammals, creating a thriving, interconnected habitat for wildlife:
Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) or mountain ash . Known for its striking red berries that appear in late summer and early autumn. These berries are highly nutritious and attract a range of bird species, including fieldfares and waxwings, which rely on them for energy during migration. In addition to benefiting birds, the rowan’s blossoms support various pollinators, enhancing biodiversity. Its bright red berries are a welcome sight on a grey, misty Autumn morning.
Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna). Another crucial native shrub that supports British wildlife. In spring, it produces clusters of white flowers rich in nectar, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. These pollinators are fundamental for the health of broader plant communities, aiding in the pollination of various native and garden plants.
The English oak (Quercus robur). Perhaps the most significant native tree in Britain. It serves as a keystone species, hosting more than 2,300 species of wildlife. LettsSafari parks boast dozens of large, ancient oak trees. We planted hundreds of diverse young oak trees in Dawlish Park alone - now they are fast growing, hormonal teenagers!
Hazel (Corylus avellana). A versatile native shrub that offers both food and habitat. Its catkins, appearing in early spring, are one of the first pollen sources for bees, giving them essential nourishment after winter. By late summer, hazelnuts provide a rich food supply for mammals such as dormice and red squirrels, which rely on these nuts for fat reserves. The dense, multi-stemmed growth of hazel also creates excellent nesting sites for birds.
The importance of planting native species lies in their evolved relationships with local wildlife. These plants are adapted to the local climate and soil, making them more resilient and beneficial compared to non-native species.
LettsSafari regularly reviews the various tree options available for smaller-scale rewilding to help you make the best choices. By incorporating native trees, shrubs and wild grasses into our gardens and parks, we help build a self-sustaining ecosystem where each species contributes to the overall health and balance. This practice is essential not only for enhancing biodiversity but also for maintaining ecosystem services such as pollination, seed dispersal, and habitat creation.
Support our rewilding parks, get exclusive content of our projects and even receive expert tips to transform your garden into a wildlife haven.
🌱 For every 10 new subscribers we plant a tree a year.
🦔 For every 100, we release an endangered animal.
🌳 And for every 10,000 we create a new rewilding safari park a year!
Make A Difference: Together We Can Rewild To Tackle Climate Change.
In a world driven by innovation and technology, it might be surprising to learn that one of the most effective and affordable solutions to climate change isn’t found in the latest tech but in nature itself. According to new data from BloombergNEF, restoring natural habitats costs just 1/8 the price of building a new zero-energy system. It’s an astonishing revelation that shines a light on an overlooked, but powerful, climate solution: nature restoration.
Beyond carbon capture, nature provides vital ecosystem services that fuel the economy. From clean water and fertile soils to resilient habitats and pollination, these services are the foundation of more than half of the global economy. Plus think of the hundreds of thousands of unloved back gardens, balconies, workplaces or public spaces. Imagine the potential of harnessing this force, not just as an environmental solution, but as a driver of sustainable growth.
Investing in nature has ripple effects across communities and industries. Healthy ecosystems provide community resilience through flood protection, soil stabilisation and clean air plus social benefits by fostering well-being, connection to place and environmental stewardship.
At LettsSafari, we’re not just talking about nature restoration—we’re doing it. We're masters of smaller-scale rewilding, restoring habitats that actively sequester carbon while generating biodiversity and providing digital services that benefit local and global communities. Supported by individual subscriptions, we plant trees, release endangered wildlife and build new rewilding parks.
Our approach is straightforward and impactful:
LettsSafari’s model aligns with a global call to action: investing in nature as a means to combat climate change. The potential for economic and social resilience is undeniable, as restored landscapes contribute to local and global well-being. Imagine a future where nature itself sustains our planet and fortifies communities in ways we’re only beginning to understand.
With LettsSafari, that future is not just imaginable—it’s within reach. We’re proving that nature restoration can be both a climate solution and a source of prosperity. If we prioritise investing in our ecosystems, we’re not only helping the planet but also unlocking an affordable, sustainable pathway to resilience and growth.
Tackle climate change. Build rewilding safari parks with us. Subscribe today! Just £4.50 a month.
The reintroduction of water voles in Britain has become a critical part of the country's rewilding efforts, aiming to restore ecosystems that have been significantly damaged over time. Water voles, often referred to as "Ratty" from Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows, were once widespread across Britain.
A project to reintroduce water voles a few years ago, at LettsSafari parks , even including Exeter's Capability Brown gardens, has been quite a success. As a result we have worked on continuing to extend our wetland areas to widen their habitat. Now our central bog and wetland areas cover over 5 acres.
Water voles are an important keystone species in wetland ecosystems. They create complex burrow systems and eat large amounts of aquatic plants, which helps to manage wetland vegetation. This behaviour contributes to healthier waterways by maintaining plant diversity and reducing overgrowth, which in turn supports a broader range of wildlife.
A lesser-known fact about water voles is their fascinating ability to engineer their habitat by creating "rafts" out of floating vegetation. These rafts are used by water voles not only for feeding but also as vantage points to avoid predators. Water voles are highly skilled swimmers and will construct these floating platforms by intertwining plant material such as reeds and grasses. This behaviour demonstrates their adaptability and resourcefulness in navigating their watery environments.
Additionally, water voles have a unique way of communicating through scent. They possess specialised glands located on their flanks, which they rub against objects like grass or stones to mark their territory. These scent markings help maintain their social structure and signal presence to other water voles in the area.
One of the standout successes in reintroducing water voles occurred at LettsSafari's rewilding centre in Devon, led by conservationist Derek Gow. Gow, a leading figure in water vole conservation, has been instrumental in captive breeding and reintroduction programs across the UK.
At Mamhead Park South, Gow’s team released hundreds of water voles into carefully managed habitats. These efforts have been part of broader restoration activities aimed at improving the biodiversity of the area and encouraging a healthier ecosystem. The reintroduction of water voles at LettsSafari parks exemplifies the power of rewilding in the UK. These initiatives are not just about restoring a single species but rebuilding entire ecosystems.
The success of water vole reintroductions offers hope for the future of Britain’s wetlands and highlights the importance of continuing to protect and restore natural landscapes for the benefit of both wildlife and people. Plus, what could be more enjoyable than the sight of a water vole tip toeing on shimmering wetlands in the golden sunset.
LettsSafari is on a mission to build rewilding safari parks across the UK. To become a LettsSafari Member go to LettsSafari.com .
When you become a paid subscriber to LettsSafari you join a membership group contributing to the development of rewilding spaces. Your subscription aids our work planting trees, protecting and supporting wildlife and adding new rewilding safari parks. Become a paid subscriber of LettsSafari today and you will also receive a private invitation for yourself and 1 guest to a VIP Tree Day at Exeter’s Capability Brown gardens on Saturday 12 October meeting at 10.30am after which you get to take your very own Capability sapling home.
The 20 acre tree heritage gardens have been painstakingly reimagined with a spotlight on conservation and climate action - with celebrated, rare historic trees and a groundbreaking new approach to natural tree rebirth and regeneration. It is a place you visit online via LettsSafari+. Now you can experience it in real life, learn about these amazing trees, enjoy a talk by our founder, Philip Letts, and take home your very own Capability Brown sapling.
This special event is hosted by Philip and the LettsSafari team celebrating the amazing rewilded gardens and the extraordinary rare and ancient trees in Exeter’s Capability Brown gardens surrounded by some of our most exciting rewilding safari parks. Wander through the wilded gardens and experience the collection of rare, young and ancient trees, learning our methods and approaches to tree growth and planting. Enjoy coffee and a presentation on the terraces of the Robert Adam Orangery overlooking the sea before picking your very own Capability Brown sapling to re-plant at home.
And remember, for every 10 subscriptions we plant a new tree, for every 100 we release an endangered animal into the wild and for every 10,000 we open a new rewilding park.
Sign up with a paid subscription today to receive your complimentary invitation and help us make a difference. Together we can rewild to tackle climate change.
Summer is the perfect time to reconnect with nature and make a positive impact on the environment in your own back garden. Rewilding, the practice of restoring natural habitats and supporting native species, is an excellent way to contribute to the health of local ecosystems. At LettsSafari, we’re passionate about helping you make the most of your time outdoors while giving back to nature. Here are our top 5 home rewilding tips for summer:
One of the simplest ways to support local wildlife is by transforming your garden into a haven for native species. Start by planting native flowers, shrubs, and trees that provide food and shelter for birds, insects, and small mammals. Avoid using pesticides and herbicides, as they can harm beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. Adding a small pond or water feature can also attract amphibians and provide a vital water source during hot summer days.
Insects play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, and building a bug hotel is a fun and educational way to support them. Use natural materials like wood, bamboo, and leaves to create a structure with various nooks and crannies for insects to shelter in. Place your bug hotel in a quiet corner of your garden or local green space, and watch as bees, beetles, and other beneficial bugs take up residence.
Traditional lawns require a lot of maintenance and provide little benefit to wildlife. Consider rewilding a portion of your lawn by letting the grass grow longer and allowing wildflowers to flourish. This will create a mini-meadow that supports pollinators like bees and butterflies. You can also add a mix of native wildflower seeds to boost biodiversity and create a vibrant, colourful space that attracts a variety of insects and birds.
Wildlife corridors are essential for connecting fragmented habitats and allowing animals to move freely between them. You can help create these corridors by ensuring your garden or outdoor space is accessible to wildlife. Plant hedges instead of installing fences, or cut small holes in your fence to allow hedgehogs and other small mammals to pass through. If you live in a more urban area, consider working with your neighbours to create a network of green spaces that benefit the entire community.
Joining local rewilding efforts is a great way to make a bigger impact and connect with like-minded individuals. Or even better, sign up for LettsSafari! Subscribe to our digital platform to get rewilding know-how, and for every 10 subscribers we plant a tree a year, for every 100 we release an endangered animal a year and for every 10,000 we open a new rewilding safari park! Plus, you’ll gain valuable knowledge and experience that you can apply to your own rewilding activities.
Rewilding is a rewarding way to connect with nature and contribute to the health of local ecosystems. Whether you’re transforming your garden into a wildlife sanctuary or participating in community projects, every small action can make a big difference. This summer, take the opportunity to embrace rewilding and support the incredible diversity of life that surrounds us. At LettsSafari, we’re here to inspire and guide you on your journey to rewilding success. Subscribe today!
A recent article in The Guardian highlighted a significant drop in the market value of carbon offsets, with a decline of 61% raising concerns about the viability and effectiveness of traditional carbon offset programs. This decline underscores the need for innovative approaches to sustainability that go beyond conventional carbon offsetting. GreenTeam from LettsSafari offers a comprehensive solution to these challenges, ensuring that companies can still meet their sustainability goals while fostering environmental stewardship.
Here's 5 reasons why:
Challenge: Traditional carbon offsets have faced scrutiny for their lack of transparency and questionable impact. With the market value dropping, the effectiveness of these offsets in truly mitigating carbon emissions is increasingly in doubt.
GreenTeam Solution: GreenTeam emphasises direct environmental impact through rewilding projects. By restoring natural habitats and promoting biodiversity, GreenTeam ensures that each initiative has a tangible, positive effect on the environment. Companies can track the direct outcomes of their contributions, such as the number of trees planted, animals released and new rewilding safari parks opened, providing clear evidence of their environmental impact.
Challenge: Carbon offset programs often lack visibility within the company, making it hard for employees to see and feel the impact of their employer's sustainability efforts. This disconnect can lead to disengagement and scepticism about the company's commitment to environmental responsibility.
GreenTeam Solution: GreenTeam integrates sustainability into the workplace by involving employees in rewilding projects. This hands-on participation not only boosts morale and job satisfaction but also fosters a deeper connection to the company's environmental goals. Employees can engage in activities such as planting native species and maintaining green spaces, creating a sense of ownership and pride in their contributions to the environment.
Challenge: The lack of transparency in carbon offset markets has been a persistent issue, with questions about the actual benefits of purchased offsets. The recent market value drop further exacerbates concerns about the legitimacy and efficacy of these programs.
GreenTeam Solution: GreenTeam offers complete transparency and accountability. Companies get a "front row seat" on the progress and impact of their rewilding projects, ensuring that every pound spent contributes directly to environmental restoration. This level of transparency builds trust with stakeholders, customers, and employees, reinforcing the company's commitment to genuine sustainability.
Challenge: With the value of carbon offsets dropping, companies might find it increasingly challenging to justify the costs associated with traditional offset programs. The fluctuating market can also lead to budget uncertainties and financial inefficiencies.
GreenTeam Solution: GreenTeam provides a cost-effective and scalable alternative. With subscriptions linked to number of employees, companies can start small and expand their engagement as they see fit. This flexibility allows for better budget management and ensures that sustainability initiatives can grow in tandem with the company's capacity and commitment. Additionally, the tangible benefits of rewilding can often be realised at a lower cost compared to purchasing traditional carbon offsets.
Challenge: As the credibility of carbon offset programs wanes, companies risk damaging their reputation by relying solely on these measures for their sustainability claims. Stakeholders and consumers are becoming more critical of superficial environmental efforts.
GreenTeam Solution: By adopting GreenTeam, companies can enhance their corporate image through authentic and impactful environmental initiatives. The visible and direct benefits of rewilding projects resonate more effectively with consumers and stakeholders, showcasing the company’s genuine dedication to sustainability. This proactive approach can differentiate a company in a crowded market, attracting eco-conscious customers and investors.
Conclusion
The decline in the market value of carbon offsets highlights the need for more reliable and impactful sustainability initiatives. GreenTeam from LettsSafari addresses these challenges head-on, providing companies with a transparent, engaging, and cost-effective solution. By embracing rewilding, businesses can ensure a positive environmental impact, boost employee engagement, and enhance their corporate reputation, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
For more information on how GreenTeam can transform your company’s sustainability strategy, visit LettsSafari GreenTeam.
In today's fast-paced work environment, companies are continuously seeking innovative ways to enhance employee morale and productivity. One such revolutionary approach is engaging with rewilding. Restoring natural habitats and encouraging biodiversity through rewilding not only benefits the environment but also creates a more vibrant and engaging work atmosphere.
Here’s how rewilding can transform your workplace for the better:
Enhanced Morale and Job Satisfaction. Rewilding initiatives, such as creating green spaces and transforming personal space can significantly boost employee morale. And these natural elements can create a more pleasant and inspiring workspace, leading to increased job satisfaction.
Increased Productivity. Natural surroundings have been shown to enhance focus and creativity. Research from the University of Exeter revealed that employees working in environments brimming with nature are 15% more productive than those in conventional office settings.
Improved Physical Health. Access to green spaces and nature not only benefits mental health but also encourages physical activity. Walking meetings, outdoor lunch breaks, and on-site gardens can motivate employees to move more, reducing the risks associated with sedentary lifestyles.
Enhanced Reputation. Companies that invest in rewilding demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and employee welfare. This can enhance their reputation, attracting top talent and customers who value environmental responsibility.
Any space can become a mini rewilding park!
Practical Steps to Implement Rewilding
Create Green Spaces. Dedicate areas within the office or surrounding grounds to green spaces. This could include gardens, green roofs, verges, paved areas, balconies or plant walls. We call them “mini” safari parks as they will become a haven to wildlife like bees, butterflies, insects and diverse plants. These spaces provide employees with a focus and eventually a place to relax and recharge.
Educate and Involve Employees. Educate employees about the benefits of rewilding and involve them in planning and maintaining green spaces. This can increase their sense of ownership and engagement with the initiative.
Encourage Outdoor Activities. Promote outdoor activities such as walking meetings, yoga sessions in the park and team-building exercises in these natural settings. These activities can reduce stress and foster a sense of community.
GreenTeam from LettsSafari
GreenTeam is a subscription package for companies to engage with rewilding. Every GreenTeam subscription supports LettsSafari in building more rewilding parks like Dawlish Park.
For every 10 employees subscribed, we plant a tree each year the subscription is valid.
For every 100 employees, we release an endangered animal back into the wild each year.
For every 10,000 employees, we open a new rewilding safari park each year.
Our 15+ years experience of smaller-scale rewilding is then shared back via an innovative digital platform so businesses can empower their employees to rewild the workplace and create their own mini rewilding parks. This can also be applied to employees' own private gardens or even local public spaces such as unloved parks, scrubland or playgrounds.
By embracing rewilding, companies can create a healthier, happier, and more productive workplace. Not only does this benefit employees, but it also contributes to broader environmental sustainability goals. Build rewilding parks with us and together we can rewild to tackle climate change.
For more information and to subscribe, visit LettsSafari GreenTeam.
In today's corporate landscape, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved from a mere buzzword to a fundamental component of business strategy. Companies are increasingly recognising the importance of integrating sustainable practices and demonstrating a genuine commitment to environmental stewardship. Enter GreenTeam from LettsSafari - a revolutionary CSR initiative that not only underscores a company's commitment to the environment but also provides tangible benefits for employees and the community.
Every GreenTeam subscription supports LettsSafari in building more rewilding safari parks like Dawlish Park.
For every 10 employees subscribed, we plant a tree each year the subscription is valid.
For every 100 employees, we release an endangered animal back into the wild each year.
For every 10,000 employees, we open a new rewilding safari park each year.
Based on 15+ years’ experience in smaller-scale rewilding, GreenTeam also includes everything a business needs to empower its employees to rewild the workplace and create its own "mini" rewilding safari parks. Knowledge that can also be applied to employees' own private gardens or in local public spaces such as unloved parks, scrubland or playgrounds.
Modern companies are under increasing pressure to meet sustainability goals and reduce their environmental footprint. GreenTeam offers a structured and impactful way to contribute to these goals. By participating in rewilding projects, companies can directly support biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and ecosystem restoration. This aligns perfectly with global sustainability targets and demonstrates a company’s proactive approach to environmental responsibility.
Employee well-being and engagement are critical for productivity and retention. GreenTeam allows employees to actively participate in rewilding projects, transforming corporate green spaces into thriving ecosystems. This hands-on involvement fosters a sense of purpose and connection to nature, which has been shown to reduce stress and enhance mental well-being. Furthermore, these activities can improve team cohesion and morale, creating a more motivated and connected workforce.
Consumers and stakeholders are increasingly favouring companies that prioritise sustainability. By adopting GreenTeam, companies can enhance their corporate image and build brand loyalty. The visible commitment to environmental causes can differentiate a company from its competitors and attract eco-conscious customers and investors.
One of the challenges of CSR initiatives is measuring their impact. GreenTeam addresses this as companies can track the number of trees planted, wildlife supported, and parks opened. This transparency and accountability allow companies to showcase their environmental contributions in sustainability reports, strengthening stakeholder trust and engagement.
GreenTeam extends beyond the confines of the company by encouraging community involvement. By transforming local green spaces and collaborating with community groups, companies can foster a sense of communal responsibility and support local biodiversity. This not only enhances the company’s reputation but also builds stronger community relations and local support.
Unlike some CSR initiatives that require significant financial investments and complex logistics, GreenTeam offers a cost-effective and scalable solution. Companies of any size sign up with a simple subscription plan which gives them instant access to a digital platform. Subscriptions can be added as employee engagement increases. This flexibility makes it accessible for companies of all sizes to participate in meaningful environmental initiatives.
Implementing GreenTeam is straightforward. Companies can sign up with a subscription package based on the size of their employee base. Every subscriber contributes to LettsSafari's rewilding park expansion plus employees gain access to exclusive content, events, and personalised advice from LettsSafari experts. Regular updates and impact reports ensure that companies can monitor their progress and celebrate their contributions to a greener future.
GreenTeam from LettsSafari is more than just a CSR initiative; it’s a movement towards a sustainable future. By integrating GreenTeam into your corporate strategy, your company can make a significant environmental impact, enhance employee well-being, and build a stronger, more sustainable brand. Join GreenTeam today and lead the charge with us towards a greener, more prosperous world.
Together We Can Rewild To Tackle Climate Change.
For more information and to subscribe, visit LettsSafari GreenTeam.
We’re grateful for all our subscribers and especially to those on our paid plans. Subscription fees go towards building more rewilding safari parks like Dawlish Park .
If you support LettsSafari (or would like to), it would mean the world to us if you invited friends to subscribe. When you refer friends, you will receive discounts towards a paid plan that supports our parks and gives you access to exclusive content on LettsSafari+.
If you have not already subscribed to LettsSafari, join the programme by signing up today . And then follow the next steps.
How to participate - Existing Subscribers
1. Share LettsSafari+. Click on the “Share” button on any post, you'll get credit for any new subscribers. Simply send the link in a text, email, or share it on social media with friends.
2. Earn benefits. When more friends use your referral link to subscribe (free or paid), you’ll receive discounts towards your next paid subscription. Or, if you currently subscribe for free, we'll apply these benefits as a discount on upgrading to our paid options.
Remember, paid subscriptions go towards funding our rewilding initiatives and you can help us to do more - expanding together our growing network of rewilding safari parks.
Thank you for helping get the word out about LettsSafari .
