Britain Reintroduces Beavers to Reduce Flooding in Urban and Rural Areas

Britain has begun reintroducing beavers to help manage flooding that has increased with heavier rainfall. The animals were hunted to extinction in Britain more than 400 years ago. Wildlife officials have now placed them at urban parks and private farmland across the country.

2023, five beavers were released in a 20-acre park near Greenford Tube station in the London borough of Ealing. The beavers dammed a creek that previously flooded the station ticket office during heavy rain. Within weeks the dam created a pond and wetland that absorbed runoff and reduced flooding downstream.

Sean McCormack, who leads the Ealing Beaver Project, said the site now functions as a sponge that releases water slowly. He added that the beavers have also increased local biodiversity by opening the tree canopy. Eight new bird species, two bat species, freshwater shrimp, and rare brown hairstreak butterflies have been recorded at the site.

The project allowed local authorities to cancel plans for a reservoir and levee. McCormack said the beavers achieved the same flood control at a fraction of the cost. Guided walks now bring residents to observe the animals.

Scientists selected Norwegian beavers because fossil records showed they are genetically closest to the original British population. In 2009, two beavers named Millie and Bjornar were moved to Knapdale Forest in western Scotland. Forest ranger Pete Creech documented their dam-building and the creation of a lagoon used by nesting swans.

Beaver numbers have grown through both licensed releases and unlicensed releases by private individuals. Kate Maitland of Scotland's National Farmers Union said some farmers report flooded fields and damaged riverbanks. The Scottish government offers grants for repairs on public land but not on private property.

Fifth-generation farmer Tom Bowser in central Scotland said he protects young trees with wire and accepts the trade-offs. A beaver dam on his property has diverted floodwater from his driveway and created a pond used for tourist tours. Bowser runs spring and summer beaver-watching visits that attract families.

Countryside warden Ian Glover at South Norwood Country Park in London has applied for a license to receive beavers in 2028 or 2029. He said the animals could perform maintenance work currently done by volunteers once a year.