UPDATE: An orphaned beaver kit named Turnip is thriving after a remarkable rescue by the Scottish SPCA. The young male beaver was just one to two weeks old and weighed a mere 860g when he was brought to the National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross, Alloa, in May 2024. He had been washed downriver during a fierce storm, prompting an urgent call to action for wildlife rescuers.
Turnip is now flourishing after receiving intensive care from dedicated staff. He was the first infant beaver to arrive at the centre, where he was hand-reared with a diet that included his favorites, sweet potatoes and carrots. Staff members worked tirelessly, ensuring Turnip learned to swim by giving him water baths and encouraging natural behaviors essential for his survival.
After six months of careful nurturing, Turnip was relocated to his new home at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, where reports confirm he continues to thrive. He has been joined by a female beaver named Parsnip, marking a significant step in their rehabilitation journey.
Sean Meechan, the wildlife operations lead at the National Wildlife Rescue Centre, expressed pride in Turnip’s progress. “We have had several injured beavers come to our centre for rehabilitation prior to release, but Turnip was the first infant we received. Our team’s tireless efforts and care have been rewarded with news that he is doing so well,” Meechan stated.
The partnership with the Cornish Seal Sanctuary allows Turnip and Parsnip to establish their own territories, playing a vital role in the ongoing efforts to care for orphaned beaver kits. This heartwarming story highlights the importance of wildlife rescue initiatives and the impact they have on individual animals’ lives.
As Turnip and Parsnip continue their journey, the Scottish SPCA encourages the public to support wildlife rescue efforts, ensuring more animals receive the care they need during critical times.
Stay tuned for more updates on Turnip and his journey as he adapts to his new environment. This story of resilience and recovery is a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated wildlife care can have on orphaned animals.
