Researchers Marco Ansón and Celia García have made a remarkable discovery: beavers, a native species that had disappeared from the Tajo River for centuries, have returned. The finding, published in the Spanish Journal of Mammalogy, marks a significant milestone in the conservation of this protected species.
While conducting fieldwork on kingfishers in the Tajo River, Ansón spotted a beaver crossing the water. This was the first recorded sighting of the species in the Tajo River basin. Previously, beavers had only been found in the Ebro, Duero, and Guadalquivir basins.
Following the initial sighting, the researchers, members of the Animal Studies Center, have identified three beaver populations in the Tajo River basin. They believe the beavers have been present for at least three years based on their size and information from local residents.
The return of beavers to the Tajo River is a testament to conservation efforts and the resilience of nature. Beavers are considered a keystone species, playing a vital role in shaping their environment. Their presence can contribute to increased biodiversity, improved water quality, and habitat creation for other species.