Beaver swimming in a calm river, Wales
Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) swimming in a calm river in Wales, UK. The beaver was hunted to extinction in Great Britain by the mid-16th century. In the 21st century several breeding pairs have been reintroduced to suitable sites, where they are starting to establish themselves. Beavers naturally dam rivers, slowing water flow and providing a habitat for other animals. The wetlands they create can also absorb excess water, helping to prevent downstream flooding after spells of heavy rain. The beaver feeds on vegetation both in and around the water.