Beavers return to Loch Ness after 500 years in Scotland

The charity Trees for Life and the Beaver Trust released a family of six beavers into the Loch Ness catchment in Scotland.

The group, which includes a mother, two two-year-old juveniles, and three kits, entered a lochan on the Dundreggan estate. This estate covers 10,000 acres in Glenmoriston and serves as a rewilding site. The animals were moved from Tayside, where they had caused issues for local farmers, to a specialist zoo for health checks before their relocation.

NatureScot provided the license for the move. Conservationists reported that the beavers appeared calm and settled immediately upon release, with the younger animals swimming and grooming each other. The release starts the Ness Beaver Project, which aims to introduce at least 15 beaver families to the area over the next three years. Organizers expect the beavers to create dams and canals that will improve river health, boost biodiversity, and help manage flooding and wildfires.

The project also intends to create guided tours to support local eco-tourism.