The two new baby beavers, known as kits, were spotted outside their lodge in Paradise Fields, a wetland ecosystem in Greenford, west London, just eight months after the pioneering reintroduction of a beaver family. Beavers were once permanent residents in the capital – but hunting, habitat destruction and persecution led to their disappearance throughout the United Kingdom. 

Beavers are often called ‘ecosystem engineers’ because their dam and canal-building skills can slow water flow, reduce flooding and improve water quality. Prior to their extinction, they played a crucial role in shaping Britain’s waterways, creating vibrant wetlands and intricate river systems brimming with invertebrates, amphibians, birds and fish. 

According to Dr Sean McCormack, the licence holder at the Ealing Beaver Project and chair of Ealing Wildlife Group, the return of beavers shows that humans and wildlife can successfully coexist in urban environments.  

“These are not a wilderness species, they are an important animal we once lived alongside up and down the country and welcoming them back, even to our towns and cities, is the right thing to do,” Dr McCormack said.  

The project began in October 2023 and involved relocating beavers from Scotland to a public site, making it a major effort in urban rewilding. The thriving family at Paradise Fields is an example for future reintroductions both in London and nationwide.  

Since their reintroduction, reports indicate reduced flooding and an increase in insects and other wildlife at the site. The beavers have also created six dams, which help the area retain more water and release it gradually after heavy rainfall. Experts will be monitoring the site closely, studying its potential for flood risk mitigation.  

Check out The Ealing Beaver Project to learn more about their work with beavers.

Image credits to Nichola Nichols / The Ealing Beaver Project.

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