Urban Rewilding: Beavers could return to a south London park

"Croydon Council's proposal would introduce a family of beavers to the park to help restore wildlife habitats, improve water quality, and create a healthier natural environment. The council is working with Citizen Zoo, specialists in urban rewilding, who are assessing the site's potential. Citizen Zoo also helped deliver London's first openly accessible urban beaver project in Ealing, giving them first-hand experience of how the animals can thrive in a city setting."

"Often described as "ecosystem engineers", beavers reshape their surroundings by building dams and wetlands. These changes can slow water flow, reduce flood risk, improve water quality and create richer habitats for fish, insects, birds and other mammals. Under the plans, the beavers would live within a secure enclosure - expected to be the largest of its kind in London - but one that remains fully accessible to the public, and a visitor centre would also be built next to the enclosure."

"Beavers were once widespread across Britain, including London, before being hunted to extinction centuries ago for their fur and meat. While their habit of felling trees can raise concerns, it also plays an important role in creating healthier wetlands. By opening up small gaps in the canopy, more light reaches the ground, encouraging a wider mix of plants and supporting greater biodiversity."

Croydon Council proposes introducing a family of beavers to South Norwood Country Park within a secure, publicly accessible enclosure and building an adjacent visitor centre. Citizen Zoo, specialists in urban rewilding, is assessing the site's potential and drawing on experience from Ealing's urban beaver project. Beavers would create dams and wetlands that slow water flow, reduce flood risk, improve water quality, and expand habitats for fish, insects, birds, and mammals. Management would protect key trees, guide beaver activity, and balance impacts to enhance biodiversity. The project requires funding, Natural England licences, and final public consultations.

Read at ianVisits