New protections should pave the way for government guidance on how future beaver re-introductions can be launched, and how such beaver populations are monitored and managed.
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Some big nature news this weekend:
Eurasian beaver to be given legal protection in England – BBC News
Beavers to be legally protected from harm in England from October | New Scientist
Beavers to be given legal protection in England | Wildlife | The Guardian
With reports from the latest newsletter from the Devon Wildlife Trust:
New legal protections for beavers
It was a dramatic week for the beaver. On Tuesday, we were expecting the government to announce legal protection from persecution for England’s wild beaver populations. But instead, we heard the unwelcome news that Defra was delaying this decision. Alongside other Wildlife Trusts nationally, DWT took to social media to apply some pressure on the government to stop the delay and ensure beavers are protected.
Yesterday the government did in fact announce that beavers would become a protected species. The change in legal status will make it an offence, from October, to deliberately capture, kill, disturb, or injure beavers, or damage their breeding sites or resting places – without holding the appropriate licence.
📷 David R White
So what does this mean for beavers?
New protections should pave the way for government guidance on how future beaver re-introductions can be launched, and how such beaver populations are monitored and managed. Critically, DWT are urging the government to;
- Support ambitious and carefully targeted reintroduction projects
- Reward landowners who make space for wetlands created by beavers
- Develop management systems that protect beavers and resolve issues effectively
- Support local beaver management groups to deliver advice and assistance
📷 Mike Symes
Homepage | Devon Wildlife Trust
New legal protections edge England closer towards wild beaver return | The Wildlife Trusts
With more info here: