Eurasian beavers were once widespread in England but were hunted to extinction by the 16th century for their fur, meat and scent glands. However, they are now slowly returning to the UK, with reintroductions being licensed across the country. As such, it is extremely important to understand the ecology of this species and in particular the impact that reintroductions have on other biodiversity.

The course will cover the following topics:

Beaver biology, ecology and field signs
The history of beavers in Britain
Legal status of beavers
Beaver reintroductions and conservation case studies
The impact of beavers on biodiversity

This course consists of a 2-hour taught indoor element, followed by an evening trip to the Willington Wetlands Reserve, to observe beavers in their natural setting.

The tutor

The course will be run by Katie Last and colleagues, who run the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust beaver re-introduction project, carrying out monitoring on the population and advising other landowners and conservation bodies on nearby projects. Katie is currently Trent Valley Living Landscape Officer and manages Willington Wetlands on a day to day basis.

Schedule

4:00pm arrival
4:15-6pm Afternoon taught session
7:30pm Beaver experience

What to bring

Water
Sturdy outdoor clothing (waterproofs, warm layers, wellies or good walking boots recommended)
Binoculars
Something to sit on e.g. camping chair or small camping mat.

Please do let us know of any medical requirements/conditions we should be aware of prior to the course.

There is a 1.5 break between sessions to give attendees a chance to eat supper, with a range of options available including Fish and Chips, Coop store and local pubs

Directions

The course starts with the indoor session being held at Repton Village Hall (Askew Grove, Repton, Derbyshire DE65 6GR).

https://reptonvillagehall.org.uk/ and on the contact us page there is a map and detailed directions. It is super easy to find with a large car park.

Repton Village Hall is situated in Askew Grove, off the High Street. From the Cross (the roundabout shown on the map), drive south along the High Street. After 100 yards, take the second turn left into Askew Grove. The hall is ahead on your left, immediately after the junction with Brookside Close. The car park is usually adequate. For map see link.

Postcode: DE65 6GR

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The evening outdoor session is at the nearby Willington Wetlands

Willington Wetlands is situated down an unmade lane (Meadow Lane) which comes off the Repton road just before the bridge over the River Trent.

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OS Map Reference. SK 2913 2761

Top photo: Chris Johnstone

Bottom photo: Ross Cooper

Beaver Conservation, Ecology and Management