Two beavers were unexpectedly released in Cornwall; they have built a dam six months later

Two beavers appeared unexpectedly at Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s Helman Tor nature reserve after six months. Trail cameras have confirmed that the pair has settled into a territory, with their activity becoming more noticeable as water levels dropped in July. They have built their first dam and begun feeding on leaves and woody vegetation, leaving some trees coppiced or felled in the process. Together, these changes are creating a more varied habitat across the reserve. The new dam has also altered the movement of water, allowing more of it to remain in the area for longer. The altered pools and surrounding vegetation are already attracting other wildlife, including herons and small mammals.How have two beavers shaped Helman Tor after six monthsThe two beavers have established a territory at Helman Tor. The beavers' arrival came unexpectedly, as the animals had been released without authorisation by an unknown third party. Cornwall Wildlife Trust was already exploring the possibility of bringing beavers back to the area and had been considering their reintroduction for several years. Their presence at Helman Tor therefore allowed the trust to monitor the pair closely while continuing...