After years of planning, Shropshire Wildlife Trust have announced that beavers have finally returned to Shrewsbury.

These incredible ecosystem engineers are now settling into their new home at the Old River Bed Nature Reserve, marking a huge step forward for wetland restoration and biodiversity.

Shropshire Wildlife Trust have said: “We know many of you are as excited as we are, but for the welfare of the beavers, please avoid visiting the enclosure or make noise around the site. The boardwalk and woodland footpath will be closed for approximately one week after the release.

“Once the boardwalk reopens, please keep quiet and make sure dogs are on-leash and well-behaved. Beavers are shy, nocturnal creatures, and their success in adapting to their new environment depends on minimal disturbance.

“We’ll be closely monitoring their progress and providing updates as they settle in. This will be the best way for us all to enjoy seeing the beavers in all their cuteness, while giving them the peace and quiet to settle in.”

Image credit: Mia Clement