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Beavers Return: England Reintroduces Iconic Wetland Engineers
7 Feb
Summary
- Beavers are being reintroduced to two new sites in south-west England.
- These releases are the second and third licensed since beavers returned to the wild.
- The project aims to boost wildlife and help manage flooding and drought.
Beavers are making a comeback in south-west England with two new sites selected for their release into the wild. These efforts, supported by Natural England, aim to restore the species and harness their landscape-altering capabilities. Beavers create dams, ponds, and channels, which in turn enhance biodiversity and help manage water levels, offering solutions to flooding and drought.
The releases in Exmoor and Cornwall are the second and third licensed reintroductions since beavers were granted legal protection in 2022. Their return signifies a government commitment to nature restoration, following an absence from British waterways for over four centuries. This reintroduction is carefully managed to avoid conflicts with farming and infrastructure.
Conservationists emphasize the importance of collaborative projects and robust 10-year plans for successful reintroductions. The National Trust highlighted the positive impact beavers have on creating wetlands that support diverse wildlife and improve water quality. Future success also hinges on agricultural incentive schemes that support coexistence.
