Family of creatures locally extinct for 400 years returns to Scottish Highlands
After 400 years of local extinction, the first beavers have returned to Scotland’s northwest Highlands.
A family of five beavers and one breeding pair were released Oct. 24 on Loch Beinn a Mheadhoin in the Glen Affric National Nature Reserve, according to a news release from the conservation charity Trees for Life.
“Once widespread in Scotland, the Eurasian beaver was hunted to extinction for its pelt, meat and musk oil,” the organization said.
Beavers play a vital role in their ecosystems by creating wetlands, reducing flooding and purifying water, according to experts. They are considered a keystone species, or one that is responsible for shaping and maintaining the health and balance of an ecosystem.
Without them, the ecosystem falls out of balance and can even collapse.
“As we saw the beavers released into the loch, we were watching a moment of wildlife history – offering hope for tackling the nature and climate emergencies, and a better future for biodiversity and people,” Trees for Life CEO Steve Micklewright said in the release.
The beavers’ presence will “create and enhance habitats that support a wide variety of plant and animal species, offering food, shelter, and breeding opportunities,” according to an Oct. 27 Facebook post from Trees for Life.
The reintroduction was completed through a joint partnership between Trees for Life, Forestry and Land Scotland, and the Beaver Trust, according to the release.
