NatureScot’s report shows increase in beavers being translocated.

NatureScot has released its Beaver Management Report for 2022 which shows a significant increase in the proportion of animals being trapped and moved compared to lethally controlled.

A total of 108 beavers were removed from conflict areas in Tayside in 2022 to prevent serious damage to agriculture. This is a reduction from 120 in 2021. Of the 108 that were removed, 45 (42 per cent) were trapped and translocated compared to 33 (28 per cent) in 2021.

A total of 63 beavers were killed under licence in 2022 compared to 87 in 2021. The report also shows that 108 dams were removed under licence.

A change in Scottish government policy came into effect last summer which supports the expansion of the beaver population across Scotland. It also promotes trapping to land managers as a reliable alternative to lethal control.

NatureScot’s report shows that the Scottish beaver population has grown quickly. It is estimated that there are now 424 beaver territories which equates to 1,500 animals. Experts say that if the population continues to grow at the same level, there could be 10,000 beavers in Scotland by 2030. 

Biodiversity minister Lorna Slater said: “It is welcome news to see the increase in the proportion of beavers being translocated and that numbers in Scotland are increasing, but more work is required. It is vital that we continue to protect and value these iconic animals. 

“The report indicates that not only are beaver population numbers increasing at a healthy rate but that alternative forms of management are being actively used by land managers to reduce their impact. This is a direct result of our commitment to promote the expansion of beavers to all parts of Scotland. 

“Beavers help re-engineer and restore rivers and can create wetlands. Their introduction is a vital part of our wider commitment to protect and restore Scotland’s natural environment.”

NatureScot says that it expects to see a further shift away from lethal control with work being undertaken to support well-considered translocations in Scotland.

Earlier in the year, beavers were released at a new site at Loch Lomond, and there are proposals for new sites at the River Spey and Glen Affric/Beauly areas.

Donald Fraser, NatureScot’s head of wildlife management said: “NatureScot has carried out environmental assessments of these catchments, and we are now inviting views on these. This will ensure we fully understand the likely effect of beaver translocations.”