“Free the Beaver!”: Cornwall Wildlife Trust Calls for the Release of Beavers Across England and Wales

Two years ago, beavers were officially recognised as a native species in England. However, despite this recognition, these industrious creatures are still waiting to be fully returned to the wild. Cornwall Wildlife Trust is now urging the UK and Welsh Governments to take immediate action to reintroduce beavers across every major river catchment in the region.

Cornwall’s Beaver Reintroduction Journey

Cornwall Wildlife Trust, in collaboration with Woodland Valley Farm, initiated the return of beavers to Cornwall in 2017. As part of a trial, a pair of beavers was released into a fenced enclosure. More recently, two beavers unexpectedly arrived at the Trust’s Helman Tor nature reserve, sparking renewed interest and support for their reintroduction across the country.

A Call for Government Action

Cornwall Wildlife Trust has laid out a clear plan for what needs to happen next. They are calling on the UK and Welsh Governments to:

• Issue Licenses: The Trust is urging the government to issue the necessary licences to allow beavers to be reintroduced across all major river catchments.
• Reward Farmers: They advocate for farmers who support the creation and maintenance of beaver wetlands to be rewarded for their efforts, recognising the environmental benefits these wetlands provide.
• Publish a Reintroduction Strategy: A comprehensive strategy for reintroducing beavers needs to be published, ensuring a clear and coordinated approach across England and Wales.
• Confirm Beavers’ Future in England and Wales: Finally, the Trust is calling for a clear confirmation that all beavers currently in England and Wales will be allowed to remain.

Why Beavers Matter

Beavers are considered a keystone species, meaning their presence significantly benefits the ecosystem. Research has demonstrated that beavers improve water quality in wetlands, stabilise water flow, and enhance habitats for a wide variety of species. Cornwall Wildlife Trust believes that by simply being themselves, beavers can make the natural world wilder and more resilient.

A Vision for the Future

With the recognition of beavers as a native species, Cornwall Wildlife Trust envisions a future where beavers are once again a common sight across England and Wales. However, this vision can only be realised if the necessary steps are taken by the government to facilitate their widespread reintroduction.

For more information on Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s efforts and their vision for the future of beavers in England and Wales, click here.