Beavers are poised to make a historic comeback in Somerset, as new licences have been issued for the release of these landscape-engineering mammals back into the wild. Natural England has authorised two releases in the South West, marking a significant step in the ongoing efforts to restore the species which vanished from Britain’s waterways over 400 years ago.
One release will take place at the National Trust’s Holnicote Estate, a 12,420-acre historic property nestled within Exmoor National Park in West Somerset. Simultaneously, Cornwall Wildlife Trust is overseeing a parallel beaver reintroduction project in Cornwall, further expanding the species’ presence in the region.
These releases represent the second and third official licences granted since the Government’s landmark decision last year to allow beavers to roam freely in the English countryside. The first authorised release happened in Purbeck, Dorset, in March 2023, at a designated national nature reserve.
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Nature Minister Mary Creagh emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating, “The return of beavers is a vital part of this Government’s mission to protect and restore nature. I am excited to see these projects underway and look forward to more beaver releases in the future.”
Beavers, once hunted to extinction in Britain for their pelts, meat, and glands, have gradually returned due to escapes and prior unofficial releases. Their legal protection was established in 2022, and they have since been introduced to multiple contained wetland and river environments.
Conservationists have long advocated for licensed reintroductions in open countryside areas to harness the beavers’ unique ecological benefits. Beavers build dams, ponds, and channels that create wetlands supporting diverse wildlife, improve water quality, and mitigate flooding and drought effects.
However, concerns remain regarding beavers’ potential impacts on farmland, crops such as maize and cricket bat willow, and infrastructure through flooding. Natural England manages these challenges by requiring ambitious 10-year plans as part of licence applications to ensure that beaver returns are compatible with farming and human activities.
Marian Spain, Chief Executive of Natural England, highlighted the importance of careful planning and community involvement: “The successful return of beavers depends on well-planned, collaborative projects built on engagement and trust, and we are committed to getting it right for both nature and communities.”
Currently, 32 projects across England have been identified as potential candidates for wild beaver releases, with 11 already invited to submit applications.
Ben McCarthy, National Trust’s Head of Nature Conservation, praised the development: “Securing a licence for a second wild beaver release is fantastic news and a major milestone as we continue to help nature recover across the landscapes we care for. We’ve already seen how beavers create rich wetlands that support wildlife, improve water quality, and help manage water flow.”
Mr. McCarthy also stressed the importance of community and farmer engagement throughout the process, reiterating the commitment to welcome back a species missing from these environments for centuries.
Alongside these efforts, conservationists have underscored the role of reforming nature-friendly farming incentives. Vicki Hird, strategic lead on agriculture at the Wildlife Trusts, warned that sustainable farming policies must support farmers to coexist with beavers. She stressed that without appropriate incentives and grants, opportunities for nature recovery and ecosystem service improvements could be missed.
The reintroduction of beavers marks a vital step towards revitalising ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity, and fostering sustainable landscapes across the South West of England.