Beavers return to Loch Ness basin after 500 years

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

This move marks the first time the species has inhabited the area in half a millennium. The animals were relocated from the Teaside region, where they had caused issues for local farmers, and underwent health checks at a specialized zoo before being released.

The release took place at the Dandreggan estate in the Glenmoriston valley, a property covering approximately 10,000 acres. Steve McLwright, the executive director of Trees for Life, observed that the animals appeared calm and comfortable in their new environment. The family consists of a female, two two-year-old young beavers, and three babies born earlier this year. The relocation is the first stage of the Ness Beaver Project.

This initiative aims to introduce at least 15 beaver families to the basin over the next three years. Alan McDonnell of Trees for Life noted that beavers were hunted to extinction in the region centuries ago, but their return helps restore natural landscapes and increase biodiversity. The organizations believe the beavers will create wetlands and help manage natural risks like floods and droughts.