Overview

• Beavers, extinct in England for over four centuries, will be reintroduced under a new government licensing system starting later this year.
• The semi-aquatic animals are recognized as 'ecosystem engineers' whose dams and wetlands support biodiversity, reduce flooding, and store water during droughts.
• The first wild release is expected to occur in Purbeck Heaths, a protected nature reserve in Dorset, with other projects requiring 10-year management plans.
• Concerns from farmers about potential impacts on crops and infrastructure have led to provisions for managing conflicts, including dam removal and relocation of animals if necessary.
• Existing wild beaver populations in areas such as Cornwall and Devon will be allowed to expand naturally, while funding and support are available for landowners to accommodate the species.