World · Europe · 2 hrs ago
Six beavers reintroduced near Loch Ness after 500 years
A family of six beavers has returned to waters near Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands, where the species had been hunted to extinction around 500 years ago.
The animals were released at the Dundreggan rewilding estate in Glenmoriston on Wednesday.
They were moved from Tayside, where they had caused problems for farmers, and received health checks before their release.
This is the first release in the Ness Beaver Project, led by Trees for Life and Beaver Trust.
The groups are expected to help restore rivers, wetlands and floodplains, while supporting wildlife and helping manage risks such as droughts and flooding.
The project plans to release at least 15 family groups over three years.
Trees for Life also plans guided tours so visitors can look for the beavers and learn about their effects on the landscape.
Six beavers have been released near Loch Ness, where the species had not been seen for 500 years.
The family was released at Trees for Life’s Dundreggan rewilding estate in Glenmoriston.
The beavers were relocated from Tayside after causing problems for farmers.
The release is the first stage of a project aiming to place at least 15 family groups around Loch Ness over three years.
Beaver dams and canals can help restore wetlands and rivers and support other wildlife.
- Who
- A family of six beavers was released by Trees for Life.
- What
- The beavers were reintroduced to waters around Loch Ness. It is the first release in the Ness Beaver Project.
- When
- Wednesday. The article was published on 5 November 2026.
- Where
- Trees for Life’s Dundreggan rewilding estate in Glenmoriston, near Loch Ness.
- Why
- The project aims to restore beavers to the area and support ecosystems. The family was relocated from Tayside after causing problems for farmers.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The family was relocated from Tayside, given a health check and taken to its new home.
The six beavers were released at the Dundreggan estate.
- Number released
- Six beavers
- Release site
- Dundreggan rewilding estate, Glenmoriston
- Last seen locally
- 500 years ago
- Project target
- At least 15 family groups around Loch Ness over the next three years
What people are saying
very beautiful thing to see
I can see them swimming and very calm, which is a really good sign,