Full Breakdown
Resilient Beaver Thrives After Recovery from Gunshot Wounds
4/9/2026, 1:08:02 PM
Recovery and Release of Fig the Beaver
A male beaver, nicknamed Fig, has made a remarkable recovery after being shot in the face three years ago. Found in a severely injured state by a member of the public in Perthshire, Fig suffered significant injuries, including the loss of two top incisors and numerous shrapnel wounds to his head. Following his rescue, Fig received extensive care at the Scottish SPCA's National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Clackmannanshire. Remarkably, his teeth regrew as the roots were undamaged, allowing him to return to a healthy state.
Fig was released back into the wild at the Argaty Red Kites Centre, in collaboration with the Beaver Trust, where he joined other beavers. Since his release, Fig has successfully found a mate and is now raising young, indicating that he is healthy, settled, and able to exhibit natural behaviors.
Legal Protections for Beavers in Scotland
Beavers have been a protected species in Scotland since May 2019, making it illegal to kill them or destroy their established dams and lodges without a license. This legal framework is part of ongoing efforts to support the reintroduction of beavers, which were once native to the region. Despite these protections, there have been instances of illegal releases of beavers in Perthshire, highlighting ongoing challenges in wildlife management.
Official Statements & Responses
The Scottish SPCA expressed their satisfaction with Fig's recovery, stating, "We're so thrilled to see Fig thriving back in the wild." This sentiment underscores the organization's commitment to wildlife rehabilitation and the successful outcomes of their efforts.
Criticism & Opposition
While Fig's story is one of recovery and success, the illegal releases of beavers in Scotland raise concerns among conservationists and wildlife managers. Critics argue that such actions can undermine the efforts to establish stable beaver populations and disrupt local ecosystems.
What's Next
The ongoing monitoring of beaver populations in Scotland will be crucial to ensure their successful integration into the ecosystem. Conservation groups, including the Scottish SPCA and the Beaver Trust, are likely to continue their efforts in wildlife rehabilitation and education to prevent illegal activities that threaten these protected species.
