Netherlands tried to recreate prehistoric Europe on reclaimed land

Dutch ecologist Frans Vera introduced Heck cattle, Konik horses, and red deer into the Oostvaardersplassen reclaimed wetland in Flevoland province in 1983.

The experiment aimed to recreate prehistoric European open landscapes through free-roaming large herbivores without human intervention.

The reserve attracted rare bird species and international conservation recognition, but severe winters culminated in the controversial winter of 2017-18, with mortality exceeding 50% in parts of the large herbivore population.

A peer-reviewed study in Ecology and Evolution reported the initial release included 32 Heck cattle, 18 Konik horses, and 40 red deer.

The population grew unchecked for over three decades due to lack of predators and conventional culling, sparking debate over rewilding practices.