Releasing the first beavers into the wild in Britain for 400 Years

Mary and Lloyd Hatton MP for South Dorset release the beavers into the wild in Purbeck

As Minister for Nature, I had the privilege of releasing the first wild Eurasian beavers in Purbeck, Dorset. Beavers are ecosystem engineers who bring many benefits for people and nature and it is wonderful to bring them back centuries after they were hunted to extinction 400 years ago.

They create wetlands which are havens for wildlife, reduce flood risk and improve the water quality of rivers. The reintroduction of beavers into the wild will be carefully managed by Natural England. It is a critical milestone for this Government’s plan to protect and restore nature in our country. You can watch the moment on Channel 4 news or on BBC Six O’Clock News here. 

There is a great video from the Beaver Trust here.