A young beaver who was snatched by a dog in Perthshire is being nursed back to health by an animal welfare team.
The twelve-week-old kit was taken to vets in Crieff by the dog’s owner.
The Scottish SPCA said the adorable critter is now being rehabilitated at the charity’s National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross, where he has been named Timber.
Centre Manager Colin Seddon said: “Timber arrived into our care at only ten weeks old after being caught by a dog on what could have been one of his first times out of the lodge.
“At such a young age he would have still been taking milk but has moved onto solid food in our care.”
He said: “Timber is the first beaver kit we have cared for at our centre in Fishcross so it’s very exciting.
“He will remain in our care for up to two years as this is the length of time beaver kits stay with their parents in the wild. After this they are able to find territories and partners of their own.
“We’ll release Timber back into the wild with the landowners permissions along with the appropriate licences once he is matured and ready.”
The centre at Fishcross is also caring for a real-life Bambi, which was spotted crying out for its mum as it walked alone through a field near Dunkeld.
A member of the public raised the alarm, reporting that the abandoned fawn was in a weakened state with no sign of its mother.
The Scottish SPCA were called to the field on July 17 and found the deer on its own in the field.
Now named Bailey by his rescuers, charity teams say his rehabilitation is going well.
Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed wild animal has been urged to call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
Beaver Watch dates
Meanwhile, dates for the final People’s Postcode Lottery Beaver Watches of 2017 at the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve have been announced.
The evening events will take place on August 16, 25 and 30. They start at 7pm and include an illustrated talk on beavers, followed by the chance to spot them from the reserve’s wildlife hide at the scenic loch.
Rachael Hunter, Perthshire Ranger at the Scottish Wildlife Trust said: “Our People’s Postcode Lottery Beaver Watches are a great way to learn about these special creatures, discover how they can transform the environment around them, and hopefully get a close up look at these fascinating animals.
“We’re delighted to have received support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery for these popular events. Our Beaver Watches in August are the last ones this year, so we’d encourage people to book quickly to avoid disappointment.”
For more information contact Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre, call 01350 727337.
