For many decades, beavers were nearly extinct in Germany. Only about 200 animals had survived along the Elbe River. Thanks to the efforts of dedicated conservationists, their population has recovered. Today, thousands of beavers once again inhabit Germany’s rivers and lakes. In fact, there are now so many that they are causing conflicts in some areas – including along the Elbe.

Peter Ibe is a passionate beaver conservationist. As early as the 1970s, the biologist was active along the Elbe, helping with relocation projects to save the last native beavers. At the time, he captured hundreds of animals. And his efforts paid off: today, the beaver population has increased to several thousand. A great success. But despite the joy over the beaver’s successful comeback, there are now also critical voices calling for population control and even the shooting of “problem animals” when they dam rivers or cause damage to agriculture. Increasing road traffic and the return of wolves also pose new threats to beavers.

Peter Ibe and his fellow conservationists are closely monitoring these developments and hope that nature will eventually find its own balance. Until then, they continue their mission to protect beavers and are quick to help when one, for example, wanders into a garden. Ibe’s colleague, beaver advisor Annett Schumacher, has just captured an injured young beaver. She plans to nurse it back to health and release it into the wild.