For the first time in 400 years, at least two beaver kits were born in urban London and appear healthy and thriving, marking a huge step forward in urban rewinding efforts.
The original family of five Eurasian beavers was introduced at Paradise Fields in London in 2023 in a collaboration between the Ealing Wildlife Group and Citizen Zoo. Within eight months, they had built dams and lodges and seemed right at home. Their first offspring appeared this spring and are adjusting well to their new environment.
The beaver dams have allowed Paradise Fields to hold more water and release it gradually, in sync with significant rainfall. Their presence has allowed for reduced flooding, improved water quality, and the emergence of a more complex ecosystem.
Now that the beavers have reproduced, it is a clear sign that they are there to stay - and the positive feedback loop they initiated is attracting more wildlife to the area.
400 years ago, beavers were hunted to extinction in the UK, but are now involved in an increasing number of rewilding programmes. It's a veritable Beaver Bonanza.
The Paradise Fields BeaverCam recently caught the growing family on film. Take a look...