For the first time after more than two centuries, a specimen of coral gracchie was born and took flight in freedom in the Kent, precisely near the castle of Dover. This historical event represents an important milestone for the conservation of local fauna, in particular for a species that was once an integral part of the cultural identity of the territory.
The coral cup, a corvid recognizable for his beak and the fire red legs, had disappeared from the region due to persecutions and the destruction of his natural habitat, in particular of the plaster prairies that offered him food and shelter. These environments, once widespread, have been progressively canceled by intensive agricultural practices and urbanization.
An ambitious project for reintroduction
The rebirth of the coral gracco is the result of a long -term reintroduction project started in 2022 by a collaboration between Wildwood Trust, Kent Wildlife Trust and Paradise Park. The goal is to reintroduce up to 50 specimens within five years in the south-east of England, favoring the restoration of a locally extinct species but still present in some areas of Ireland, Wales and Man island.
Habitats restored to welcome the future
A fundamental element for the return of the Chough was the restoration of limestone prairies, environments rich in insects and larvae that represent an essential food source, especially during the nesting season. Through techniques such as controlled pasture, the ideal conditions have been created for these birds to not only survive, but reproduce in nature.
A flight that makes hope
The born chick and which took this year represents the first concrete test that the restored ecosystem works. After a failed attempt in 2024 because of bad weather, nature has now given a positive response. And to make this conservation project even more important is the fact that the coral gracco represents a lot for Kent: it is a symbol of the link between history, culture and biodiversity, with deep roots in the local tradition and even in the legend of Thomas Becket. His return marks a new chapter for this English county.
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