NatureScot Review 49: The Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) in Scotland: a review of the literature and historical evidence
The Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) was once widespread throughout Britain and Europe, but demands for its pelt and castoreum, as well as habitat destruction in many areas led to its decline and, by the nineteenth century disappearance from large tracts of its range. The historical evidence suggests the species was once widely distributed throughout mainland Scotland. It was once probably fairly common, but by the sixteenth century the species had become extinct. The main cause of the decline was most likely hunting. Habitat destruction was possibly important in the loss of small isolated beaver populations. Possible threats to the reintroduction of the beaver to Scotland include those likely to affect the actual reintroduction as well as potential threats associated with successful reintroductions. Should no suitable habitat be found to permit reintroductions, then serious consideration should be given to creating area which would be suitable for the species.
Pages: 26
Published: 1996
