Beavers released to the wild - one year later

One year after beavers were released into the wild at Studland in Dorset, they have transformed a dense area of woodland into a thriving wetland habitat.

The release, carried out by the National Trust in March 2025 at Little Sea lake. It marked a significant step in the return of a species hunted to extinction in mainland Britain in the 16th century.

Initially, the beavers searched widely for suitable territory, exploring several sites before settling. At one point, the female even reached the nearby town of Swanage by sea and was returned to Little Sea for welfare reasons. The pair has since constructing a substantial 35 metre dam.

This dam has slowed a small stream, creating a deep pond and reshaping the surrounding environment. By felling and coppicing trees, the beavers have opened up the canopy, allowing more light to reach the ground and encouraging a surge in biodiversity. The site now supports a variety of plants, insects, amphibians, birds and bats. Trail cameras have recorded an otter fishing in the pond and a barn owl hunting nearby, while volunteers have spotted species such as redpoll and water rail.

The ecological changes have been rapid and striking. Trees cut by the beavers regenerate quickly, and this natural coppicing supports woodland health. Their dam-building may also be helping to reduce flood risk by slowing water flow during heavy rain.

Recent trail camera footage shows the pair are well established, with ongoing monitoring by staff and volunteers ensuring their health and progress.
These beavers join another pair already present at the lake before the official release. That pair has successfully raised three kits and built two large lodges on opposite sides of the 33-hectare site.

Beyond local impacts, beavers are recognised for their role in boosting climate resilience. Their dams retain water during floods and droughts and improve downstream water quality by trapping sediment.

Following this success, the National Trust has carried out another licensed release on the Holnicote Estate in Exmoor. A further release is planned for the Purbeck Heaths National Nature Reserve, continuing their efforts to restore ecosystems through nature based solutions.

For more information visit 
nationaltrust.org.uk/studland-beavers

Photograph: National Trust