Conservationists hope that two closely bonded beavers released on Exmoor could help strengthen the wild beaver population and restore vital wetland habitats.
Trail cameras at the National Trust’s Holnicote Estate in Somerset captured the semi-aquatic mammals grooming one another, suggesting they have formed a close pair.
The beavers were released in February 2026 as part of the National Trust’s wider conservation project to restore rivers, wetlands and floodplains across the 5,000-hectare Holnicote Estate.
National Trust ranger Matthew Bartschell said: “The fact that they have paired up is a good indication that they have found the right conditions at Holnicote, including enough suitable habitat, food and space to establish a territory.”
Beavers usually live in small family groups centred around an adult pair, which often remains together for life.
As the beavers establish their territory, their dams, canals and wetlands can create new habitats for wildlife, improve biodiversity and help keep water in the landscape for longer.
Source: www.bbc.co.uk