We’re delighted to confirm that beavers have been recorded at Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve, near Ringwood, with footage showing activity at the site.

The captivating footage of two beavers was captured on the morning of 1 May 2026 by a regular visitor to the reserve and shared with the Trust. 

The sighting marks an exciting moment for the reserve and demonstrates the importance of its rich network of lakes, wetlands and waterways.

“We were both surprised and delighted to see this footage,” said Martin de Retuerto , Director of Nature Recovery at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. “Blashford Lakes is a remarkable place for nature, with a rich mix of lakes, wetlands, reedbeds and woodland, so it’s no great surprise that beavers – which depend on healthy freshwater habitats – may be exploring the area.” 

Neighbouring resident Tony Thompson captured the footage and said:  

“I walk through the nature reserve regularly and am used to seeing wildlife, so I initially assumed it was an otter. But when I saw it splashing its tail, I realised it was behaving differently. A few minutes later I was amazed to see two of them interacting in the water. They seemed completely unaware of me nearby, and it was an incredible thing to witness.”

While this is an exciting and significant recording, we ask everyone to remember that beavers are wild animals. If visiting the reserve or surrounding area, please enjoy wildlife responsibly by keeping a safe distance, avoiding disturbance, and noting dogs are not permitted on the reserve.  

Beavers are a keystone species, meaning their activities can have a transformative impact on landscapes. By creating wetlands and slowing water flow, they help support a wide variety of plants and animals, improve water quality, and make catchments more resilient to the impacts of climate change. 

Their presence can also bring real benefits for people. Beaver‑created habitats can reduce pollution, store water during drought, slow flood flows during periods of heavy rain, and significantly increase biodiversity. 

We recognise that some people have concerns about beavers returning to our landscapes. However, evidence from Devon, Kent and elsewhere in the UK clearly demonstrates that beavers can coexist successfully within modern landscapes, delivering substantial ecological and societal benefits that far outweigh any potential impacts when their activity is well understood and appropriately managed. 

The Trust has licensed and experienced staff with the specialist knowledge required to advise on beaver behaviour and activity. We will continue to monitor the situation carefully and work with partners and local communities as we learn more. 

For press, media or other enquiries, please contact us at webmarketing@hiwwt.org.uk 

Thank you for helping us look after Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve and the wildlife that depends on this special place.