Family of four Eurasian beavers released in Northumberland

The estate is the conservation charity's third beaver release location, following successful introductions on Exmoor in 2020 and the South Downs in 2021.

The beavers were once a common sight in British rivers but became extinct in the 16th century due to hunting.

In recent years, they have been reintroduced at several sites in Britain.

Paul Hewitt, Countryside Manager at the National Trust, said: “Much as they did centuries ago, these instinctive animals will engineer the landscape, creating a dynamic system of dams and ponds that, over time, will become a lush wetland, brimming with life.

“The BBC’s Wild Isles was a powerful reminder of the beauty – and critically, the scarcity – of British wildlife. 

"If we are to make sure those amazing natural spectacles don’t become a thing of the past, we have to create space for wildlife to thrive. 

"Beavers are a fantastic tool to help us do that; where they go, fish, insects, birds and amphibians follow.”

The release on the Wallington Estate is the first in Northumberland, making the animals one of the few beaver populations in northern England.

Beavers are known for engineering landscapes by creating dams and ponds, which over time, will become lush wetlands that support a variety of life.

By slowing the speed at which water flows through a catchment, they can reduce flood risk.

Their habitats also hold water during periods of drought.

Mr Hewitt added: “Extreme weather has left its mark on this part of the country in recent years, and as we increasingly face into the effects of climate change, we need to find ways of making this landscape more resilient and benefitting the people who live and work in the area. 

"Along with interventions like increasing tree cover, planting hedgerows, and restoring peatlands, we believe beavers can be part of the solution.”

The beavers form part of a bigger project called Wilder Wallington that is designed to improve prospects for nature.