What can a brand new patch of nature tell us about Europe's ancient history? In this episode, we touch down in the Netherlands, where an unconventional experiment (the Oostvaardersplassen) has shaken up both the field of ecology and Dutch society. What started as a bird watcher’s obsession with thousands of trekking geese, led to a criticism of one of the central tenets in ecology: ecosystem succession. Enter a counter-theory that would return the rarest of birds, butterflies, and a once-extinct mega mammal to one of the most densely populated countries on earth. For photos, transcripts, citations, and musical credits, head to https://www.futureecologies.net/listen/fe-4-3-a-tiny-wilderness (www.futureecologies.net/listen/fe-4-3-a-tiny-wilderness) – – – Future Ecologies is independent and ad-free. This podcast is possible thanks to our https://www.futureecologies.net/patrons (supporters on Patreon) Join our community of supporting listeners (for as little as $1 per month) for acc...