The beaver’s legacy

The project explores the role of the Eurasian beaver (Castor fibre) in biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management in two distinct ecological and social contexts. In Italy, the recent reappearance of the beaver has shown significant benefits for biodiversity, with a positive impact on flora, fauna and water quality, but has also raised questions about the long-term management of the species. In Slovakia, where the beaver has been present for decades, the project addresses the challenges of high population density, including tensions with human activities such as agriculture. The initiative aims to integrate Italian expertise on beaver ecology with Slovak expertise in parasitology, promoting an interdisciplinary approach to conservation. Using technologies such as GIS and innovative environmental monitoring methods, including bioacoustics and environmental DNA, the project assesses the distribution and impact of the beaver on biodiversity (bats and small mammals). It also studies the possible exchange of parasites between beavers and other aquatic species, contributing to the creation of a molecular database to improve the taxonomy of parasites. The survey also includes an analysis of the social perception of the beaver in the two countries, through questionnaires involving local residents, to understand how the presence of the species influences opinions and management policies.

The project involves bilateral research missions, cross-training and the publication of scientific studies, with the aim of developing sustainable beaver management strategies that balance conservation and human conflict mitigation. The collaboration aims to disseminate replicable methods for non-lethal management of the beaver and to raise public awareness of the importance of this iconic species for the health of ecosystems.