Beaver pair has new home at animal sanctuaryCaroline Robinson -
An animal sanctuary has announced the arrival of two beavers.
The beavers, named after famous conservationists Steve and Terri Irwin, arrived at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek, Cornwall, at the end of September.
Sean Higgins, the sanctuary's property and conservation manager, said Steve and Terri's arrival was an "exciting moment" and staff looked forward to watching them settle in and getting to know their personalities.
He added: "We are proud to play our part in supporting beaver conservation and the wider effort to reintroduce these remarkable animals to our special and unique landscape."
Steve and Terri were cared for at Five Sisters Zoo in West Caulder, Scotland, and the Beaver Trust before making their way to Cornwall.
Beavers are recognised as one of nature's most important keystone species - their natural activities can help create and maintain wetland habitats, which benefits a wide range of other wildlife.
Dr Roisin Campbell-Palmer, head of restoration at Beaver Trust, said the pair had "very different journeys" into captive care.
She said Steve arrived as an orphan while Terri was injured and unable to return to her family group.
"The move was made to pair them together for companionship while they continue to mature, with the hope that, when they are ready, they will establish themselves in a suitable wild release project," she said.
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The Cornish Seal Sanctuary said the beavers names were chosen because the Irwins were "personal heroes and inspirations to many members of the team".
Higgins said: "We hope to honour that legacy and celebrate the values they championed, a deep respect for wildlife, a commitment to conservation and the belief that inspiring people to care can make a real difference."
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Related internet links
Cornish Seal Sanctuary
Beaver Trust
Source: Nature
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