In autumn 2020, a pair of Beavers were introduced into an enclosure at Knepp Estate in West Sussex. This pair did not breed, and in 2022 a new pair were released. The first young Beavers to be born in Sussex in centuries made an appearance soon after, and there are now several generations of Beavers living in a 250-hectare area at Knepp. In early 2026, Beaver activity outside Knepp Estate was reported. We are following up these reports.
The National Trust released a pair of Beavers onto the River Wey at the edge of the South Downs National Park in 2021. After a few setbacks, some new Beavers settled into their enclosure in 2025.
A further family of seven Beavers was released into a private enclosure on the River Ouse in 2026.
Beavers have already transformed the local landscape at these sites, providing an excellent showcase of the benefits these animals can bring.
Article last updated June 2026
