A nature reserve in Norfolk has recorded the first wild beaver at its site in centuries.
The animal was spotted several weeks ago at Pensthorpe Natural Park near Fakenham. Beavers were hunted to extinction in Britain during the 16th Century, making this sighting the first wild beaver recorded in Norfolk for hundreds of years.
Reserve manager Richard Spowage said: “The fact that it has chosen our land to establish a territory reflects the ongoing work we have been doing to improve our river and surrounding land for nature.” He described the beaver’s presence as “extremely low-impact and an encouraging indicator of ecological recovery” and called the discovery “an exciting moment for Pensthorpe.”
Signs of the beaver’s activity, such as bark stripped from trees, have been observed around the reserve. As the animal is nocturnal, sightings are rare. The reserve emphasised that it is not promoting the beaver as a visitor attraction, but is celebrating its ecological significance.
Earlier this year, the UK government approved the reintroduction of beavers in other parts of the country. Spowage highlighted the wider environmental importance, saying: “Wetlands are some of the most threatened habitats in the UK. To have a beaver recorded here is a reminder of what’s possible when you restore nature at scale. It’s a moment of hope, not just for Pensthorpe but for wildlife across Norfolk.”
