Beavers ‘breathe new life’ into Dorset as dams built and biodiversity returns

What Happened

A year after their reintroduction, beavers in Dorset are enriching local habitats and may be having kits this summer. The National Trust has observed both successes and challenges for the first beavers to be officially reintroduced into the wild in England since they were hunted to extinction 400 years ago.

Why It Matters

The reintroduction of beavers is significant as these animals play a crucial role in ecosystem restoration. Their dam-building activities can improve water quality, increase biodiversity, and help mitigate flooding, making them vital for environmental health in the region.

The Bigger Picture

This initiative reflects a broader trend of rewilding efforts across the UK and Europe, aiming to restore natural ecosystems and promote biodiversity. As climate change intensifies, such projects are increasingly seen as essential for enhancing resilience in local environments.