Beavers granted protected status in Wales

Beavers in Wales have been granted protected status by the Welsh government, making it illegal to deliberately harm them or damage their habitats.

The legislative changes by Welsh government on Thursday 2 October bring Wales into line with England and Scotland and recognises beavers as a native species that requires protection.

However, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) still requires licences for any wild releases and retains authority to issue management licences.

See also: Mixed emotions as wild beaver spotted on Welsh river

Wales’ deputy first minister Huw Irranca-Davies said extending legal protections to beavers is a big step forward for nature in Wales and the Welsh government will now see how European beavers can help create natural flood defences and cleaner rivers across Wales.

Aligning policy

“We are facing climate and nature emergencies, and that means we must do everything in our power to help nature thrive,” he said.

Beaver Trust welcomed the legislative changes.

“Granting beavers legal protection recognises they are a part of Welsh natural heritage, bringing Wales in line with the rest of Britain and ensuring beavers in cross-border catchments are equally protected,” said Jess Chappell, policy lead at Beaver Trust.

She added that it was important that the correct measures, incentives and support mechanisms are in place to support farmers and land managers to live alongside the species.

Improving river quality

Recent scientific evidence, the Welsh government says, demonstrates that beaver dams trap sediments and filter pollutants from agricultural runoff, significantly reducing harmful nitrogen and phosphorus in waterways.

This natural water treatment supports the government’s goals for improved river quality and ecosystem resilience.

“Reintroducing beavers can make our environment more resilient and healthier,” said Mary Lewis, NRW head of natural resource management policy.

And this was becoming increasingly important, she added. “We face growing pressures on our natural resources, and giving beavers legal protection is an important step forward in making this a success.”

FUW concerns

However, the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) said the decision was disappointing.

“We have consistently opposed their reintroduction due to the damage they can cause to farmland, crops, and infrastructure,” said Gemma Haines, FUW policy officer.

This added protection, she said, may hinder urgent management and “encourage illegal releases, leaving landowners to face the consequences without adequate support”.

Mr Irranca-Davies added that he is committed to a collaborative, evidence-led approach and will establish a Wales Beaver Forum to help manage some of the concerns raised.

The group is expected to meet for the first time in November.