Wild Beavers Are Back in England After 400 Years – and Help Other Animals to Thrive

A wild beaver colony in England has been flourishing for the first time in 400 years, leaving positive impacts on the environment and ecosystem of the river Otter in Devon county.

“We are committed to reintroducing formerly native species, including beavers, where there are clear environmental and socio-economic benefits,” says a spokesperson for the UK’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs.

The first family of beavers had escaped captivity about ten years ago and settled in the area. The colony, supported by the Devon Wildlife Trust, has decreased the risk of flooding as the beavers reduce water flow and allow plant and animal life to thrive. There are currently up to thirteen different beaver families, including around seven breeding pairs on the river.