Question reference: S6W-00972
- Asked by: Liz Smith, MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party
- Date lodged: 22 June 2021
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Current status: Answered by Mairi McAllan on 12 August 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what plans are in place to renew beaver control licences when the current licences end on 16 August 2021.
Answer
When beavers became a European Protected Species in May 2019, NatureScot made a commitment to carry out a review of beaver licensing after two years.
This review will be concluded shortly following which Nature Scot will publish updated licence conditions and guidance for applicants on its website.
Following their review of beaver licensing, NatureScot has now issued the majority of the licence renewals, which are valid with effect from 17 August 2021 for a period of 2 years. Licence holders have been informed of the amendments to the conditions of the licence, including the provision of a map and compliance with codes of practice, which have been incorporated following the review.