Scientists believe that beavers, with their ability to restore and nurture ecosystems, could significantly contribute to biodiversity and climate change mitigation.
However, concerns have arisen that a government initiative to reintroduce beavers in England is facing delays and lack of action from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Beavers, once hunted to extinction in Britain, were reintroduced in enclosed areas in England and Wales.
Illegal releases have led to the presence of hundreds of wild beavers in England, while Scotland actively encourages their reintroduction. Scientists are urging the government to take action and protect these ecosystem-restoring creatures.
The Guardian – Beavers are back – but scientists fear Defra’s silence on protection deal