Association for the Return of Large Herbivores to Natural Areas

ARTHEN Association for the Return of Large Herbivores to Natural Areas

ARTHEN aims to reintroduce herbivorous ungulates and promote the return of extinct ancestral species (European bison, moose, etc.), following the example of similar initiatives undertaken in other European countries.

Who are we?

The association’s primary purpose is the promotion, study, and reintroduction of ungulate mammals, particularly large herbivores that have disappeared from mainland France or their substitutes. The association initiates and develops specific actions and programs related to the species in question, such as the Tarpan Project.     

The association’s primary missions are:

• Scientific, notably through genetic, physiological, ecological, or ethological studies of the species in question.   
•  Environmental, through the impact of the species in question on natural habitats, aimed at restoring ecosystem functionality. In suitable contexts, through the implementation of “natural grazing.”

• Educational, by making information, studies, and research on the species in question and on the programs implemented available to the public. 
• Economic, through the promotion of ecotourism involving these species.