More new beavers for Knapdale
Two more beavers have been released at Knapdale to help consolidate the population and strengthen the beaver community’s chance of breeding success.
The latest releases, a translocation of animals from Tayside as licensed by NatureScot, was facilitated by Forestry and Land Scotland and the Beaver Trust, and follows on from the release of six animals last month.
Dr Roisin Campbell-Palmer, Head of Restoration, Beaver Trust, said:
"It's incredibly fulfilling releasing a pair of beavers here in Knapdale today to further reinforce the existing population.
“We're really pleased to continue working with Forestry Land Scotland, moving animals from areas of conflict to locations like this.
“Here, they can not only bring real environmental benefits but thanks to the work of the Heart of Argyll Wildlife Organisation they will also provide additional opportunities for the public to observe and learn about this native species."
This is the latest release in FLS’ 15 year history of translocating beavers to Knapdale, where the animals have become a popular visitor draw.
Colin Edwards, FLS’ Environment Manager, said;
“It’s great to be able to lend a hand and help bring these animals to a place where they can set up home, fit in and help expand the population of beavers in Scotland.
“As part of our continuing support for the expansion of the beaver population we are also looking to improve riparian habitat to support the natural expansion of the population. We will continue to consider other potential sites where translocations might take place as resources allow.”
Gary Curran, Head Carnivore Keeper at Five Sisters Zoo, whose staff assessed the health of the new beavers prior to release, said;
“We are thrilled that Five Sisters Zoo have once again played a part in another fantastic beaver project. We are all looking forward to hearing how the pair settle in their new habitat.”
Monitoring over the coming months will continue to ensure they settle into their new environment.
Jenny Bryce, NatureScot’s beaver team manager, said:
“We’re pleased to support this further release to reinforce the beaver population at Knapdale. The areas that FLS oversee, covering our National Forest and Land, give us a fantastic opportunity to improve nature on these sites while removing beavers from areas where there is conflict.
“Beavers are already established in the Tay and Forth catchments, in Knapdale and more recently in the Loch Lomond and Cairngorms National Parks. We are keen to explore where there are further opportunities for beaver release to low conflict sites within these catchments where beavers will bring benefits for people and nature.”
Notes to editors
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Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
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Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07785 527590 or paul.munro@forestryandland.gov.scot