River Spey beaver report 2025

This document contains a summary of the River Spey beaver survey conducted by Cairngorms National Park Authority staff in August 2025, with an earlier survey of Loch Morlich in July. The survey used canoes to identify beaver feeding signs and activity along the River Spey, from Spey Dam to Advie Bridge, and also around Loch Morlich and Loch Alvie. Results showed increased beaver activity compared to last year, with four new territories identified, bringing the total from released individuals to nine. Beavers are settling and spreading in areas with high-quality habitat, particularly where willows are abundant, as these trees made up 80 percent of feeding signs. While feeding signs were found across the area, some stretches lacked woody forage. The survey noted that willow fragments, sometimes called 'beaver canoes,' can help new willows grow downstream. Monitoring will continue to track new territory establishment and population growth, which is expected to continue expanding, especially in prime habitats like the Kingussie to Aviemore area.