First beaver kits born on estate

In 2022, beavers were officially recognised as a native species in England

Two beaver kits have been born on an estate four years after their parents were introduced.

The pair are believed to have been born in May or June on the Lowther Estate near Penrith, Cumbria.

Their parents, Glen and Dragonfly, live in a fenced-in enclosure following their licensed release.

Elizabeth Ogilvie, ecologist at the Lowther Estate, said: "It has been a joy to watch the beaver kits through the trail cameras this summer."

Beavers are native to mainland Britain but were hunted to extinction in the 16th Century by people who wanted their fur, meat, and scent glands.

Conservationists argue their reintroduction creates wetland landscapes which benefit other species.

It is believed the kits were born in May or June this year

Ms Ogilvie added: "This winter the beaver adults have expanded their ponds which has helped foster a perfect habitat for lapwings, alongside mallards, moorhens and greylags.

"In addition, we have spotted a number of bats on the trail cameras feeding on insects above the pools."

David Harpley, chair of Cumbria Beaver Group (CBG) said: "We’re delighted that the Lowther beavers are rearing two kits, who seem to be doing very well.

"As well as helping biodiversity, people benefit too, because beavers can help reduce the risk of flooding by holding water back in the landscape."

CBG, made up of a number of wildlife organisations, says in the long term it would like to see beavers living in Cumbria outside of enclosures.

However, the group says any reintroduction would have to be "well planned, well managed and have the support of the local community".