GOOD NEWS! After 500 years, beavers have been spotted in Portugal.
The last known record of beavers in the country dates back to the end of the 15th century. Since then, the species has disappeared from Portugal’s rivers as a victim of intensive hunting.
However, after two decades of population recovery in Spain, signs of beavers in national territory have finally been spotted.
The Portugal News states that gnawing marks have appeared on trees and watercourse manipulation structures have been found.
Photo-trapping cameras have confirmed the presence of young adult beavers in Portuguese territory.
This historic milestone is symbolic for nature conservation in not only Portugal, but in Europe. It’s a sign of hope and reliance for all endangered wildlife, but also a call to action to protect and support the return of species that are missing from our ecosystem.
