News / avon wildlife trust
Wild beavers living in Bristol region for first time in 400 years
It’s dam good news for nature lovers as it is revealed wild beavers are living in the Bristol region for the first time in more than 400 years.
Conservationists have described the evidence of three generations of the river-dwelling rodents as “extremely significant”, saying it shows their population has expanded without human intervention.
The sighting of a family of beavers, including three young kits born this year, makes the River Avon area one of the first in the country the creatures have made their home – although their exact location remains top secret to protect the welfare of the animals.
is needed now More than ever
It comes in the wake of initial conservation trials, such as the River Otter Beaver Trial in Devon, that have helped to reintroduce wild beavers into the UK. The government has gone on to launch a landmark consultation on the reintroduction of beavers in the UK.
Amy Coulthard, director of nature’s recovery for Avon Wildlife Trust, said: “A new sighting of wild beavers is extremely significant. Beavers are a keystone species and they have an extraordinary ability to change habitats to suit their needs while creating ecosystems for other species to thrive.
“The presence of this beaver population will support other wildlife and help us to tackle the ecological emergency.”
A feeding yearling beaver in the Bristol region – photo by Bevis Watts
A five-year scientific study conducted by the Wildlife Trusts shows the presence of beavers has a wide range of positive effects on biodiversity, nature and people. The research found that active beavers improve water quality, reduce flood risk and increase biodiversity, while ponds created by beavers may host 50 per cent more unique species than other wetlands.
Avon Wildlife Trust recently launched a 30 by 30 appeal, which aims to raise £30,000 to help ensure at least 30 per cent of the land and sea is connected and protected for nature’s recovery by 2030.
Funds raised through the appeal will go towards nature recovery projects like the Avon beavers and the newly appointed beaver management group, which involves statutory partners, NGOs, and other local interest groups.
The group will monitor the new population and work with landowners in the catchment area to maximise the benefits beavers provide as well as manage their impact.
Beavers are nature’s ecological warriors – photo by Bevis Watts
Photos and video by Bevis Watts
Read more: Avon Wildlife Trust backs campaign to save south Bristol green space
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