Six beaver families to be released near Highland river

The issue of returning beavers to the River Beauly had split opinion

Six beaver families are to be released at two sites near the River Beauly in the Highlands after a public consultation split opinion.

NatureScot has approved licenses for four families at Glen Affric nature reserve, and two on land managed by Abriachan Forest Trust.

The government body said the move followed discussions with land and fishing groups, with arguments being made on whether beavers should be returned.

Supporters say beavers can improve water quality and natural habitats and also help to alleviate flooding, but critics say they can damage land and crops.

A beaver mitigation and monitoring group is being set up to manage potential issues.

NatureScot said it would work with Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) on the monitoring for at least 10 years after the beavers' release.

Chris Donald, NatureScot's head of operations for Central Highland, said: "Beavers can bring many benefits for nature and people – including creating biodiverse habitats, moderating water flows and improving water quality – all of which can play a part in creating climate-resilient landscapes.

"After careful consideration, we believe that it is possible to realise these many benefits while ensuring that the community is supported in living with beavers."

A small number of beavers have been living on the River Beauly system for the last decade as a result of unauthorised escapes or releases.

Beavers died out in Scotland about 400 years ago but were reintroduced in 2009.

Populations are already established in the Cairngorms, Tayside, on the Forth, in Knapdale and Loch Lomond.