Words by Abi Scaife
Beavers are returning to the Nene Wetlands after 400 years.
Great! Tell me more.
The Wildlife Trust have announced they have a license to reintroduce the critters starting next winter. Beavers are a native species to the UK, but many people don’t know that because they were hunted to extinction in the 16th century.
The Wildlife Trust say they will be working closely with the Beaver Trust, to make sure that welfare standards are tip-top.
Why is this important?
The Nene Wetlands in Northamptonshire were found to be a great place to reintroduce beavers - and beavers themselves are a great, and important, part of the ecosystem.
They naturally coppice trees (meaning they might be cut down, but they naturally grow back again, providing more space for wildlife in the meantime), and are big fans of certain invasive, non-native plant species that prevent our own wildflowers from growing.
All in all, these beavers are a great addition to our country - and we can’t wait to hear more about them!
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Woodland Trust. This is the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity, concerned with the creation, protection, and restoration of native woodland heritage. Support them here.
Rewilding Britain. They aim to tackle the climate emergency and extinction crisis, reconnect people with the natural world and help communities thrive. Find out more here.
Devon’s Wildlife Trust. DWT is the only local charity dedicated to protecting wildlife and wild places across Devon - on land and at sea. Learn more here.
