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Science Weekly

Why it’s boom time for beavers in England

Mar 4, 2025
Helena Horton, an environment reporter for the Guardian, dives into the exciting resurgence of beavers in England. Once hunted to extinction, these furry creatures are now being reintroduced, heralded as vital for restoring ecosystems. Helena discusses their role as nature's water engineers, enhancing biodiversity, and even benefiting local economies. She addresses the challenges of reintroduction, including farmer concerns and the balancing act required for conservation. It's a fascinating journey into beaver conservation that's changing perceptions and landscapes alike.
14:38

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Quick takeaways

  • The reintroduction of beavers in England marks a significant environmental win, as they help restore waterways and enhance biodiversity.
  • Beavers' resurgence stimulates local economies through increased tourism, fostering community support for environmental initiatives despite some agricultural concerns.

Deep dives

The Return of Beavers to Britain

Beavers, once extinct in Britain for over 400 years due to hunting, are making a significant return, as the government has recently approved their release into the wild. This change allows beavers to inhabit natural waterways, contributing to environmental restoration as they serve as natural engineers for water systems. Their presence can alter river flows, creating wetlands that help manage flooding and drought by retaining water in the landscape instead of allowing it to run directly into the sea. The gradual reintroduction of these creatures illustrates a pivotal shift in wildlife preservation and management strategies within the UK.

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