Rewilding Pioneer Award
Lucy Rees
Rewilding Pioneer Award
Lucy Rees
Equine ethologist and wild horse reserve manager in Extremadura Spain, for outstanding contributions to species rewilding, advancing understanding of wild horse behaviour and demonstrating how restoring natural herds supports both ecosystem recovery and animal welfare
It is a great honour to present this year’s Species Rewilding Award to Lucy Rees, whose lifelong dedication to studying wild horses has transformed our understanding of their behaviour and shown how their return can help restore the health and balance of natural landscapes.
Lucy Rees is an equine ethologist, writer, and teacher who has dedicated decades to studying horse behaviour in the wild. From her base in Extremadura, Spain, she manages the Pottoka in Piornal project, where herds of primitive Basque ponies roam freely. This living experiment demonstrates how wild horses shape and restore ecosystems, offering lessons for rewilding initiatives worldwide.
The horse’s mind
Lucy Rees’ books — including The Horse’s Mind, Wild Horse Ethology, and Horses in Company — have become essential references for horse lovers and scientists alike. Through them, Lucy has revealed the social intelligence, cooperation, and adaptability of horses, challenging long-held assumptions and reshaping how we relate to domestic horses.
Her influence extends far beyond the field. By showing that wild and semi-wild horses can be agents of ecological renewal, she has opened new pathways for rewilding landscapes and reconnecting people with truly wild nature.
For her visionary research, her pioneering work with primitive horse breeds, and her profound impact on both equine science and rewilding practice, we are proud to present the Species Rewilding Award to Lucy Rees.
Celebrating Bold Vision
Honouring pioneers whose ideas and dedication are transforming landscapes, inspiring communities, and shaping the future of rewilding around the world.
Recognising More Rewilding Pioneers
Rewilding Legacy Award
Sir Humphry Wakefield has received the Rewilding Legacy Award for his lifelong dedication to conservation, heritage landscapes, and supporting initiatives that restore wild processes and inspire future generations of rewilders.
Rewilding Pioneer Award
The Rewilding Pioneer Award 2025 goes to Frans Vera, a visionary whose groundbreaking ideas and perseverance have fundamentally transformed how we understand nature. His work continues to shape rewilding practice and inspire conservationists worldwide.