Beaver reintroduction programs are creating wetland habitats that benefit hundreds of species. Understanding the welfare dimensions of reintroduction and the ecosystem services beavers provide supports advocacy.
Beaver reintroduction is a conservation welfare intervention of unusual scale — by creating complex wetland habitat, each family of beavers improves conditions for hundreds of other species. Fish populations increase in beaver-dammed streams, providing food for otters, herons, and kingfishers. Amphibian breeding success improves in beaver ponds. Invertebrate diversity increases. The welfare of the beavers themselves must also be considered — reintroduced animals need adequate food, territory, and protection from poaching. Well-managed reintroductions serve both beaver welfare and ecosystem-wide welfare goals.