Beavers in Scotland

Beavers have returned to Scotland after more than 400 years. Once native here, the species was hunted to extinction in around the 16th century. In Scotland, beavers have been protected by law since 1st May 2019. The Scottish Government approved the natural expansion of the species and has since allowed for their range to be increased through translocations to new catchments.

Beavers can benefit nature

As ‘ecosystem engineers’ their activities can create wetlands, improve habitats and enhance biodiversity. They can also alleviate flooding, improve water quality and bring socio-economic benefits. In some places and situations, the activities of beavers can have negative impacts on other interests such as farms, gardens or other land. NatureScot provides free and expert advice to help people experiencing problems. Our beaver mitigation scheme helps develop new approaches to beaver mitigation, learning from experience.

About beavers in Scotland

Learn more about beaver activities

Find out more about beavers as a species, including common activities and how these can benefit biodiversity but also occasionally present people with challenges.

Beavers as a protected species

The return of beavers to Scotland and their recognition as European Protected Species heralds one of the most significant changes to the natural environment in many years.

Scotland’s Beaver Strategy

Scotland’s Beaver Strategy 2022-2045 is one of the most ambitious and forward-looking approaches to managing and conserving a species carried out in Britain.