Beavers in Scotland
 

Beavers have returned to Scotland after an absence of more than 400 years. Once native to our landscapes and waterways, the species was hunted to extinction in around the 16th century. In Scotland, beavers have been protected by law as a European Protected Species 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 wetland habitats, improve habitat structure and diversity 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. We operate a beaver mitigation scheme to help develop new approaches to beaver mitigation and learn from experience.

About beavers in Scotland

Management and mitigation

Reports and further information