Too Eager For Beavers?

In the UK, the European beaver was driven to extinction, by the early 16th Century. Recent reintroductions of this dam-building rodent, have confirmed, however, that its presence can have environmental benefits. Beavers may help prevent flooding; often create scarce freshwater habitats for other species and even improve local water quality. 'Beaver bombing' (covertly releasing this rodent into the wild), seems now, however, to be a growing phenomenon (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/aug/29/beavers-transform-devons-river-otter-but-how-did-they-get-there). This 'beaver bombing', appears a response to a perceived Wildlife Trust belief that the UK government has failed to approve timely releases. One can understand the frustrations. Releases, however, need to be carried out with care and individually evaluated. Some reintroductions could increase disease transmission or conflict between these highly territorial animals. Some release locations may also be inappropriate, in terms of not providing suitable habitats or endangering other protected species. Much has changed, in more than 400 years! Sometimes, introductions can have unexpected consequences.