Beavers set to return to Loch Ness area after license granted

A licence has been granted for beavers to be reintroduced to the Loch Ness area, 500 years since they were last recorded at the world-famous loch.

Charities Trees for Life and Beaver Trust will lead the Ness Beaver Project, aiming to release up to 15 beaver family groups over the next three years.

After the license was approved by Scottish Government agency NatureScot, first reintroductions may begin as early as November.

The initiative seeks to establish a healthy population through licensed releases, boosting wildlife and biodiversity, according to the charities involved.

'Benefits for nature, climate and people'.

Alan McDonnell, Head of Restoration at Trees for Life said, "Beavers are key allies in tackling the interconnected climate and biodiversity crises facing us all, so this successful result brings real hope for the future.

"Our thanks go to everyone locally who has taken part in the discussions.

“There has been huge interest from communities and local businesses.

"Our engagement has been locally focused, with the team meeting people on the ground to listen to their views firsthand."

Dr Roisin Campbell-Palmer, head of restoration at Beaver Trust, added: “We’re delighted by NatureScot’s decision, and grateful for the invaluable engagement from people who live and work locally.

"Bringing beavers back to this beautiful place will be great progress for Scotland’s Beaver Strategy, bringing benefits for nature, climate and people."

Concerns raised from land and fisheries managers

NatureScot identified the River Ness catchment as particularly suitable for beavers, with robust habitats and low risks to other land uses.

Consultations found strong public support for the project, although some concerns from land and fisheries managers were raised.

Robbie Kernahan of NatureScot commented, “Beavers can bring many benefits for nature and people, creating habitats such as ponds and wetlands where other species thrive, as well as moderating water flows in times of flood and water scarcity.

"Some concerns have been raised by land managers and residents through the consultation process and we take these seriously.

"We have assessed the monitoring and mitigation plans set out by the applicants and believe that, along with our existing Beaver Mitigation Scheme, any potential conflicts that may arise can be resolved.”

Beavers were last recorded at Loch Ness in Hector Boece’s Chronicles of Scotland in 1526–27.