Wildlife in Moray:- Beavers in the Cairngorms?
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Beavers are unlikely to start populating the Cairngorms unless they are deliberately moved there.
That's according to a newly published study which rates as slim the chances of beavers from other areas of Scotland starting to breed in the national park.
The study identifies the most likely 'colonisation route' is from Tayside, where the creatures are plentiful.
However, it adds the Pitlochry Fish Ladder acts as a barrier which prevents them heading further north in enough numbers to start a colony.
The report published today was commissioned by the Cairngorms National Park Authority.
It comes as the possibility is being examined of beavers being brought to the region from elsewhere.
Today's report finds 30% of the park's watercourses are suitable for Eurasian beavers, with about 20% suitable for beaver dams.
It adds: "The River Spey on the whole would offer highly suitable habitat for beaver release and supporting multiple families in current state, recognising that on a river system any released animals will move quickly from a release point and successfully select the best areas of habitat through their own choice."
The animals were re-introduced to Scotland in 2009.
NatureScot claimed in August there are now about 1000 – double the number three years before.
This rapid increase has led to calls from some quarters for a cull – although legislation introduced in 2019 makes it illegal to kill or disturb badgers.
It also used to be illegal to move beavers from one part of Scotland to another.
However, a policy change last November now sees the Scottish Government stating its support for translocations to establish Eurasian beavers outside their current range.
Roger Knight, director of the Spey Fishery Board, said: "It is extremely important that we understand what effect beavers might have on the landscape, land uses and other wildlife, especially when you consider the importance of the park’s rivers for a range of other species such as Atlantic salmon and rare fresh water pearl mussels."
Read the report HERE
