Tauros

The Tauros Project – returning a keystone species

Trees for Life is working towards releasing a social herd of tauros cattle at the charity’s Dundreggan estate in the Scottish Highlands.

Tauros have been bred from ancient domestic cattle breeds to be as similar as possible to the extinct aurochs, the original wild cattle from which nearly all modern domestic breeds originate. Tauros not only look like the wild aurochs, they are thought to behave like them too. This means that a breed of cattle now exists that can closely replicate the natural behaviours of the wild species. The aurochs were native to Scotland and acted as a keystone species by enabling natural processes like plant colonisation through ground disturbance and nutrient cycling through their dung.

Trees for Life’s Tauros Project is being designed to discover whether releasing them in a way that enables them to behave as naturally as possible could enhance nature recovery efforts at Dundreggan and potentially elsewhere. The project would also strictly adhere to the legal and animal welfare requirements that come with keeping cattle.

Trees for Life champions the return of keystone species to Scotland, because the natural processes they bring with them enables a more natural balance in the landscape. There could be other benefits from tauros, including nature-based tourism and meat production. Importantly, reintroducing an aurochs-like animal is not about trying to recreate the past, but is instead about restoring rich and diverse landscapes which support a variety of wildlife, and are resilient to environmental challenges.

Background and significance

 

Aurochs are depicted in petroglyphs of the Côa Valley, dating back 30,000 years. Aurochs were once widespread throughout Europe and the UK, including the Scottish Highlands. Due to habitat loss and hunting pressures, the last known animal died in 1627 and the species went extinct.

For millennia, huge herds of these mega-herbivores – among Europe’s largest land mammals – had an enormously beneficial impact on Europe’s landscapes, plants and soils, and supported a variety of wildlife and biodiversity.

The tauros has been bred (or ‘back-bred’) from ancient European breeds, creating the perfect ecological substitute that replicates the appearance and natural behaviour of the aurochs. By using the aurochs as a blueprint, the tauros inherits that wild legacy, leaving it superbly placed to adopt a similar ‘keystone’ role today.

A missing keystone species

 

There is no equivalent to tauros among domesticated cattle breeds. Uniquely, they have been bred to be genetically diverse, and as close as possible to their wild ancestor. This focus has produced an animal that is extremely resilient to the challenges of life in the wild, with tauros having proven itself adaptable to predators and a wide range of environmental conditions. In European projects tauros have benefited both biodiversity and nature restoration as a result of their ‘bigness and behaviour’.

Not only are they a missing species, but they are a keystone species which have a significant impact on their surroundings, where:
– Pioneer plants germinate in soil turned up by bulls.
– Seeds disperse via the tauros fur.
– Predators make use of cattle trails.
– Dung supports insects and healthy soils.

They are larger and more active than Highland cows, and have a substantial impact on vegetation, aiding in habitat restoration and nutrient cycling through activities such as trampling and grazing.

Project impact and long-term vision

 

Supporting nature: To see the landscape rewilded with a demonstrable impact on habitat restoration and increased biodiversity.

Education: To reconnect people with the land and engage them in rewilding.

Benefits: To show how such projects can create economic and social benefits, such as sustainable meat production and eco-tourism.

Research: To carry out detailed scientific research and contribute valuable data to rewilding in Scotland.

Landscape change: To eventually see tauros projects replicated and expanded across Scotland, without fences, creating herds that behave as naturally as possible, allowing them to be a key part of rewilding in Scotland.

Frequently asked questions

What is an aurochs and are they the same as a tauros?
The aurochs is an extinct cattle species. It is the wild ancestor of nearly all modern domestic cattle breeds. Tauros is classified as a domestic breed, but is possesses physical and behavioural traits similar to the extinct species. Unlike other cattle breeds, tauros have been bred to be as close as possible to its wild ancestor. Tauros are therefore extremely resilient to the challenges of life in wild nature, able to adapt to predators and a wide range of environmental conditions. Tauros not only look more like an aurochs, but increasingly acts like one too.

 

When did aurochs go extinct?
The aurochs evolved to survive predators, environmental changes and, latterly, competition from domestic livestock, until habitat loss and hunting pressure drove it to extinction in 1627. Virtually all the nearly one thousand cattle breeds in the world today are descended from the aurochs.

 

How big are tauros?
Tauros are big animals, they are expected to reach up to 180cm (bulls) and 150cm (cows) at the shoulder, similar to the estimated height of the aurochs which were among Europe’s largest land mammals. Tauros typically interact more dramatically with their environment than other cattle breeds, with their impact deriving from a combination of their ‘bigness and behaviour’, resulting in benefits for both biodiversity and ecosystem restoration.

 

How many tauros might be released at Dundreggan?
To balance the rewilding benefits of introducing tauros with the conservation of delicate, recovering ecosystems at Dundreggan, we will only introduce a certain number of tauros based on the capacity of the habitat. We initially intend to release a small herd of less than fifteen animals.

 

Are tauros safe?
In the Netherlands, tauros are kept in areas very close to people and they are generally unresponsive to human presence there. At Dundreggan they will not be close to people and so may become more concerned by human activity. That is why, like all cattle, they should be treated with the utmost respect and they should not be approached in ways that may panic them. Cows with young calves may defend their young from perceived threats and herds that are ‘spooked’ in any way, may panic.

Trees for Life will therefore offer managed opportunities to get close to tauros and ensure signage and safety protocols are in place to ensure people can experience the awe and wander of meeting these animals safely.

 

Why is the project focusing on tauros rather than an old British cattle breed such as White Park?
The tauros has been specifically bred to possess the physical and behavioural traits of its wild ancestor, the auroch. Unlike domestic cattle breeds, tauros are larger and more active, and have a significant impact on their environment, where:

  • Pioneer plants germinate in soil turned up by bulls.
  • Seeds disperse via the tauros fur.
  • Predators make use of cattle trails.
  • Dung, free from chemicals, supports insects and healthy soils.

Tauros have been bred to live in the wild with minimal human intervention, are genetically diverse, and are resilient to environmental changes. The community engagement and education opportunities offered by a wild and ancient breed will also help to engage a broader range of people with rewilding.

 

Why are you reintroducing a large grazing animal like the tauros, when there is a need to reduce deer numbers in Scotland to help with nature restoration?
While deer overpopulation can cause significant damage to forests by overgrazing young trees and vegetation, tauros play a completely different ecological role. Tauros are a keystone species – their natural behaviours, such as grazing, trampling, and nutrient cycling through dung, help restore balance to landscapes in ways that deer cannot. Reducing the number of deer helps to prevent overgrazing, allowing forests to grow and regenerate. Tauros, on the other hand, create ground disturbances that promote plant diversity and nutrient-rich soils, as well as spread seeds, support insects, and help to maintain open areas that are beneficial for various plants and animals. By having a herd of tauros, alongside controlled deer management, we aim to restore a healthier and more balanced landscape, encouraging a diverse range of wildlife and plants to thrive.

Scientific research and data collection:

What data will you collect to assess the impact of tauros on the ecosystem?
We will monitor:

  • Changes in vegetation, like plant species diversity and density, to see how tauros grazing impacts them.
  • Soil health indicators, such as nutrient levels and composition, to understand the impact of their trampling and dung.
  • Movement and behaviour of tauros to analyse their interactions with other wildlife and habitats.
  • Bird, insect, and small mammal populations to understand the broader ecological impact of tauros.

 

How will the project contribute to the broader scientific understanding of rewilding and ecosystem recovery?
The Tauros Project will provide valuable data on:

  • How reintroducing a keystone species impacts degraded ecosystems.
  • Changes in vegetation, soil health, and biodiversity due to their presence.
  • The role of large herbivores in shaping habitats, nutrient cycling, and promoting species diversity.

By sharing our findings, we aim to:

  • Improve rewilding strategies and methodologies.
  • Influence future rewilding initiatives and policies.
  • Highlight the importance of rewilding in combating biodiversity loss and climate change.

 

Long-term goals and expansion:

What are the long-term goals of the Tauros Project in the context of wider rewilding efforts in Scotland?
We aim to:

  • Establish tauros as a keystone animal that drives ecological restoration and biodiversity enhancement.
  • Recreate natural grazing patterns to support diverse habitats, and other plants and animals.
  • Better understand the social structure, dynamics and behaviour of tauros.
  • Promote resilience against climate change and reverse biodiversity loss.
  • Serve as a model for rewilding efforts, showing the benefits of reintroducing large herbivores.
  • Foster community engagement and support for rewilding, enhancing public understanding and appreciation of natural processes.

 

Is there potential for expanding the project to other areas or introducing other keystone species?
Yes, we plan to:

  • Expand to other locations in Scotland, if initial stages are successful. Expansion would further enhance ecosystem restoration efforts on a larger scale, particularly in landscapes that are part of broader rewilding networks like the Affric Highlands.
  • Introduce other keystone species critical for rewilding.
  • Ensure expansions are based on thorough ecological assessments, community input, and securing necessary funding and permissions.
  • Set a precedent and provide a model for holistic and large-scale rewilding initiatives.

Community involvement and public perception:

How can people and local communities get involved in this project?
Through educational initiatives, such as events at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, and ranger-led tours that allow community members to get up close and learn about the tauros, thereby enhancing their understanding of the project’s goals.

 

How will you communicate the value and safety of introducing large herbivores to the public?
Educational initiatives will be key, providing the public with clear information about the tauros, their ecological role, and the safety measures in place. Safety protocols, including clear guidelines on how to safely observe and interact with tauros, will be communicated extensively. Furthermore, the project will continually monitor and publicly share data on the impacts of tauros, demonstrating the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship and knowledge sharing.

 

Collaboration and partnerships:

What are the roles of your project partners, such as the Grazelands Rewilding?
Grazelands Rewilding, have bred tauros and are experts in wild grazing. They provide the project with the necessary animals and offer ongoing support in herd management and welfare. Their expertise in understanding the behavioural and ecological impacts of tauros is invaluable for ensuring the animals’ successful adaptation to Scotland.

 

Are there opportunities for collaboration with academic institutions or other conservation organisations?
Yes, collaborations can enrich the project with scientific research, ecological monitoring, and educational outreach. Academic institutions can play a pivotal role in conducting in-depth ecological studies and impact assessments, offering valuable insights into the effects of tauros on ecosystems and biodiversity. These collaborations can also facilitate student involvement in research and fieldwork, contributing to education and fostering the next generation of conservationists. We are considering volunteering opportunities, and developing plans for academic research and are open to enquiries from academic institutions.

Ecological impact and sustainability:

How will you ensure that introducing tauros will have a positive impact on the existing ecosystem?
To balance the rewilding benefits of introducing tauros with the conservation of delicate ecosystems at Dundreggan, we will:

  • Implement a strategic approach with careful management and continuous monitoring.
  • Only introduce a certain number of tauros based on the capacity of the habitat.
  • Create zones without tauros to protect sensitive habitats like wet heaths and montane woodlands.
  • Allow significant tauros movements in the landscape so they can behave naturally , rotating their grazing to maintain ecological balance.
  • Conduct regular ecological assessments to monitor vegetation and soil health, and adapt management based on findings.
  • Collaborate with ecological experts and local communities to enhance monitoring efforts, ensuring any potentially negative impacts are quickly identified and addressed.

 

How will you prevent potential overgrazing or habitat damage by the tauros?
To ensure tauros contribute positively to the estate’s rewilding efforts while preserving the integrity of varied habitats, we will:

  • Maintain controlled stocking densities to match the land’s capacity.
  • Allow natural rotational grazing by providing tauros with a large area to graze.
  • Regularly monitor habitats, including vegetation and soil health.
  • Use fencing and zoning strategies to protect sensitive areas.
  • Employ adaptive management, adjusting strategies based on continuous assessments.

 

Animal welfare and management:

How will you ensure the welfare of the tauros?
All legal and animal welfare requirements to keep tauros safe and healthy will be followed. Tauros are well-suited to outdoor living and live in similar conditions in Croatia to those that they will find at Dundreggan. However, Trees for Life will ensure they have adequate shelter and foraging areas on lower ground to protect them from extreme weather conditions. Continuous checks, including by veterinarians, will ensure their health and wellbeing. They will be able to roam across a substantial area, allowing natural movement and social behaviours, crucial for maintaining their physical and mental health.

 

How will tauros thrive alongside communities and other wildlife?
Key measures include the use of real and eventually virtual fences to keep tauros within designated areas, thereby minimising their interaction with local communities. Additionally, close monitoring will be conducted to ensure that they do not negatively impact the environment or other species. This monitoring includes observing their behavioural patterns and ecological impacts, as well as controlling their population densities to maintain ecological balance. The project also plans to employ an experienced herd manager to regularly check on the animals and address any issues that emerge. These measures will ensure that the tauros coexist harmoniously with the natural environment and local communities, embodying a responsible approach to rewilding and species management.

As with any large animal, they should be treated with respect and caution. Signage will make it clear that the tauros should not be approached and that dogs should not be allowed to roam near the cattle, particularly if they have calves. Safety protocols, including clear guidelines on how to safely observe and interact with the tauros, will be communicated extensively.

 

Risks and contingencies:

What are the risks associated with this project, and how do you plan to mitigate them?
The primary risks associated with the Tauros Project include potential negative ecological impacts, such as damage to sensitive habitats, and challenges in managing the interaction between tauros and people. To mitigate these risks, the project has established robust monitoring protocols to closely observe the tauros’ ecological impact and adjust stocking levels as needed. Fencing, both real and virtual, will be used to control the movement of tauros. The project will also engage in ongoing community outreach and education to address concerns and promote safe interactions between tauros and the public. These measures, combined with the expertise of the project team and collaboration with Grazelands Rewilding, aim to effectively manage and minimise risks while maximising the project’s ecological and social benefits.

 

What plans are in place in case the project does not proceed as expected, such as the tauros not adapting well to the environment?
If the tauros face adaptation challenges, in collaboration with Grazelands Rewilding, we will:

  • Reassess and modify the land or herd management to better suit their needs.
  • Alter grazing areas or adjust herd composition if necessary.
  • In the unlikely event of severe issues around tauros’ well-being or ecological impact, relocation of the animals will be considered.

These plans ensure both the welfare of tauros and the integrity of the local ecosystem, demonstrating our commitment to responsible and adaptive project management.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance:

What legal and regulatory considerations are there?
The project will adhere to wildlife and environmental protection laws, ensuring that the introduction does not negatively impact native species or habitats. Tauros is legally a domestic animal and livestock regulations, including those concerning health, transport, and welfare, must be rigorously complied with.

 

How do you plan to navigate the complexities of wildlife laws and land use regulations?
The project team is committed to continuous collaboration with legal experts and regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, including those related to wildlife protection, habitat conservation, and livestock management. This entails obtaining necessary permits and conducting thorough environmental impact assessments to align with conservation objectives and mitigate any potential ecological risks.

 

Impact measurement and reporting:

How will the project’s success be measured, and will the results be publicly available?
The success of the Tauros Project will be measured through a comprehensive set of ecological and social indicators, with results made publicly available to ensure transparency and foster broader learning. Ecologically, success will be gauged by the impact of tauros on habitat diversity, vegetation structure, and overall biodiversity, as well as their adaptation to the Scottish environment. Socially, community engagement levels, public perception, and participation in project-related activities will be key metrics. Monitoring these indicators will involve regular data collection, analysis, and reporting. The project commits to sharing its findings with the wider public, conservation community, and stakeholders through reports, publications, and online platforms.

Financial and operational planning:

Can you provide more details on funding requirements and how it will be allocated over the project’s timeline?
The budget for the Tauros Project is divided into several key areas:

  • Start-up costs: These include preparing and transporting the founder herd, legal fees, building necessary infrastructure, and purchasing radio collars.
  • Operational costs: Over five years, these will cover staff salaries, facility maintenance, and managing the tauros herd.
  • Monitoring and research: A significant portion is dedicated to tracking the project’s impact on the ecosystem and ensuring the tauros’ successful adaptation.
  • Contingencies: Funds are set aside for unexpected expenses to ensure the project runs smoothly.

 

What are the plans for the project’s financial sustainability beyond the initial funding phase?
For long-term financial sustainability, we will:

  • Seek continued support: Maintain relationships with trusts, foundations, and corporate partners, highlighting the project’s ecological and community benefits.
  • Generate income: Develop nature-based tourism, such as rewilding safaris and educational programs, featuring tauros.
  • Sustainable meat production: Explore this option as a revenue source, aligning with rewilding principles.

These strategies, along with careful financial management and impact monitoring, aim to ensure the project’s success beyond the initial funding period.

Photo of tauros

Working with

Development funding kindly provided by Rewilding Britain.