Licence granted for beaver reintroduction around Loch Ness

NatureScot has granted Trees for Life and Beaver Trust a licence to reintroduce beavers around Loch Ness, potentially beginning in November 2026. The Ness Beaver Project plans to establish at least 15 family groups over three years at a network of sites across lochs, lochans and rivers. Specific release locations will be announced after the animals are safely relocated, to minimise disturbance.

The River Ness catchment was identified by NatureScot in 2022 as one of Scotland’s most suitable areas for beavers, with extensive river and loch banks, woodland and comparatively low risk of conflict with other land uses. The charities say beaver dams and canals can reconnect rivers, wetlands and floodplains, improving freshwater habitat and helping landscapes retain water during drought, wildfire and flooding.

For land managers, the project will include a locally based beaver management officer, community engagement, citizen-science monitoring, research and support for land managers. A monitoring and mitigation group will also be established. Beavers will be relocated from elsewhere in Scotland, with the project funded by charitable supporters and rewilding funds.