For the first time in 400 years, beavers are set to return to London, potentially helping to stop flooding at a local train station. These cosy rodents, which were hunted extensively for their fur and meat, went extinct in England in the 16th century.

Now, following a successful ten-year restoration programme, these mammals have returned. They are currently being reintroduced to London. At least one male and one female will be released into the wild at Paradise Fields (Paradise Fields), an eight-hectare area of woodland and wetlands.

Beavers can act as 'ecosystem engineers', creating habitats for dozens of other species. As a result of their work, wood introduced or felled into the water provides food and shelter for insects, which in turn attract fish and birds. The dams they build slow the flow of water, creating wetlands and marshy meadows.