Pair of eager beavers released in South Downs to help boost valley wildlife

Rangers hope reintroduction of once eradicated species will help manage habitat and improve biodiversity

The beaver needed no encouragement. After a 500-mile road trip from the banks of a Scottish river to a hidden valley on the edge of England's rolling South Downs, the sights and smells of a woodland pond were all it took.

As soon as his straw-lined travel crate was opened, the creature padded out, glided smoothly into the water and began a careful examination of his new home.