Young Beaver In Care Of Animal Charity After Being Caught By Dog

9 August 2017, 10:30 | Updated: 9 August 2017, 10:32

A 12-week-old beaver who was caught by a dog and separated from his parents will have to be looked after by a charity for up to two years.

Timber, as he has been named, was taken to a vet in Crieff, Perthshire, by a member of the public after her pet caught him while out for a walk.

The kit is now being rehabilitated at the Scottish SPCA's National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross.

Centre manager Colin Seddon said: "Timber arrived into our care at only 10 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 on to solid food in our care.

"Timber is the first beaver kit we have cared for at our centre in Fishcross so it's very exciting."

The kit will stay at the centre for up to two years, as this is how long the animals stay with their parents in the wild.

After this they are able to find territories and partners of their own.

Timber will be released back into the wild, with landowner permission, once matured and ready.

Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed wild animal can call the charity's animal helpline on 03000 999 999.