Whilst working on a reserve this week I came across the signs of beaver activity.  In this picture you can see how the beavers have coppiced this stand of small trees. The foliage and small branches of the trees had been removed and the trunks were cut in to smaller manageable sections for the beavers to move.

Some of the branches would have been taken to their lodge and stored, ready for the colder weather. By removing these trees it has allowed in light to a dark area and created a more diverse structure in this woodland.

This is a positive modification and benefits other animal species such as invertebrates like dragonflies, and small birds. Keep up the good work beavers!

Rachael Hunter, Perthshire Ranger