MS, Deputy First Minister & Cabinet
Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs: Last year, I
announced my intention to move toward the managed reintroduction
of the Eurasian beaver in Wales. In October 2025, following
extensive stakeholder engagement, I confirmed my intention to
bring forward legislation to recognise Eurasian beaver as a
native species and provide the necessary protections for them to
thrive in Wales.
Today I have laid the Beavers (Wales) Order 2026
(external link). This Order amends the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species
Regulations 2017 to recognise Eurasian beaver as a native species
in Wales and to grant European Protected Species of animal
status. The legislation will come into force on the 4 March
2026.
These legislative changes will allow us to establish a clear
legal framework for licensing and management, ensuring that any
future releases are regulated and that Eurasian beavers are
afforded appropriate protections in Wales.
The Welsh Government will continue to support Natural Resources
Wales in developing detailed licensing guidance, monitoring
protocols, and stakeholder engagement plans. Any wider policy
decisions on managed reintroduction programmes will be subject to
separate impact assessments and consultation. This includes
working closely with landowners, farming and fisheries interests,
and conservation organisations through the Wales Beaver Forum to
address concerns and maximise benefits.
