'Dam good': Beavers to become native species

BEAVERS are set to be legally recognised as a native species in Wales, the Welsh Government has confirmed, paving the way for their managed reintroduction.

- CHRIS HAINES

Climate change secretary Huw Irranca-Davies said new legislation would make it an offence to deliberately harm beavers or their habitats in Wales.

He confirmed the law would be changed before the May 2026 Senedd election, bringing Wales in line with Scotland and England.

The announcement came during a debate led by Joyce Watson, who called for their reintroduction to act as “eco-engineers” in tackling the nature crisis.

Ms Watson, the Senedd’s beaver champion, made a passionate case for bringing the “majestic” animals home - centuries after they were hunted to extinction in Tudor times.

Ms Watson, who has represented Mid and West Wales since 2007, told Senedd members that beavers could be critical to improving water quality and reducing flood risk.