Beavers and Licensing
The beaver is a European protected species, fully protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 (as amended). This protection also extends to lodges and burrows used for breeding and can apply to dams. Find out about the beaver as a protected species.
Our Management Framework includes guidance for people who may work in areas where beavers may be present and on what may constitute an offence or require a licence. If you are uncertain then contact the licensing team for advice.
Find out more
All documents relating to beavers
Read our latest news release:
- News - Beavers release approved at new Argyll and Tayside sites (28 September 2023)
- News - Report finds more beavers moved as population continues to expand (9 June 2023)
- News - New beaver strategy for Scotland (21 September 2022)
- News - Beaver licensing figures published (23 May 2022)
Contact
If you already have a licence number, include it in the subject line of your email, or have it to hand when you call.
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