Beaver Information Exchange for Wales

Frequently asked questions: Reintroduction

Is there sufficient habitat for beaver reintroduction?

An ecological feasibility study commissioned as part of the Welsh Beaver Assessment Initiative has shown that there as an abundance of habitat suitable for beavers in Wales.

How would an initial reintroduction be managed?

A location with good habitat and abundant existing food supplies would be chosen.

Reintroduced animals would be provided with individual electronic tags and monitored by a designated team.

Any undesirable impacts of beavers would be managed by a dedicated team.

Who will have responsibility for beavers in the long-term?

WAG via CCW would have ultimate responsibility in the long term.

Day to day management may be undertaken by suitable Non Governmental Organisations such as the Wildlife Trusts, probably in partnership with the Environment Agency Wales.

Is the reintroduction of beaver the thin edge of the wedge, i.e., will there be moves to reintroduce wolves, bears and lynx?

This partnership is only concerned with assessment of the potential for reintroducing beaver to Wales. There is no link to any other species not currently present in the British Isles.

Unlike many other species, beaver were driven to extinction by over-hunting for their meat, fur and medicinal by-products rather than through habitat loss or because they were considered a problem species.

This means that they could be reintroduced relatively easily as suitable habitat is still present. Beaver have also existed alongside farming, fishing and other human activities and due to their limited range, their presence would create minimal disruption. They do not pose any danger to livestock or people.

It should be noted that other reintroductions of species formerly present, such as the Red Kite and Osprey, have not resulted in problems. Indeed they have generated significant revenue from nature tourism. For example, eagle watching on Mull generates far more income now than farming.

Would the IUCN guidelines on reintroduction be followed if beavers were to be reintroduced to Wales?

Yes. The IUCN guidelines and procedures would be followed (see Section 8.2).

Would the reintroduction have approval from the regulatory bodies?

Yes. Any legal beaver reintroduction to Wales would need the approval of the relevant regulatory body (CCW) and of course the Welsh Assembly Government.