KNOWLEDGE BASE

This text proposes three hypotheses to explain the successful invasion of North American beavers across Tierra del Fuego, Chile. One is that they lack natural enemies, another is that there are available resources, and the third is that they create the conditions they need to survive. This last point is supported by the observation that beaver population density is higher where beavers have modified the habitat more. Please note, this paper is mostly written in Spanish.

Researchers assessed the co-existence of salmon, sea trout, and beavers by analysing which areas of a Norwegian river system they all used. They also surveyed local landowners. They found that while beavers occupied some spawning areas, they only hindered a small portion of fish reproduction. Most landowners welcomed beavers alongside fish. Overall, they conclude that beavers are unlikely to significantly harm salmon and sea trout reproduction in similar areas.

Elk can damage plant populations by over-eating. Fences to protect certain areas work by excluding other animals but the exclusion of all mammals may not always be needed to allow plants to recover. This article reports on a new fence design which excludes elk but allows access for other species like deer and beavers. The new fence was successful, keeping out elk (and cattle) but allowing access for other mammals including beavers. Aspen trees protected by this fence ended up growing taller over a 2-year period.

This article summarises efforts to reintroduce beavers to Britain, some of the sources of human-beaver conflict, and the potential beavers have to the environment, including in supporting climate adaptation efforts. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

This article summarises efforts to reintroduce beavers to Britain, some of the common misconceptions about beavers, and the ecological role that beavers play. Please note, this resource is not open-access.