BEAVER tours are being organised on Exmoor by the National Trust ahead of a planned release of a number of the animals into the wild.

It follows a number of drop-in sessions held by the trust in local villages for residents to learn more about the wild release plans.

The re-introduction later this year of beavers into the Aller and Horner catchments will be the first time the animals have lived wild on Exmoor for 400 years.

However, the trust has had beavers breeding in secure enclosures for the past five years on the Holnicote estate, between Minehead and Porlock.

Now, it is organising guided walks and talks in the Holnicote beaver enclosures, led by the trust’s expert ranger team.

A spokesperson said: “Discover the incredible, hidden wetland of the Holnicote beaver enclosure.

“Explore the dams, pools, and lodge and maybe even spot the beavers themselves in the evening.

“Enjoy an evening of wildlife discovery with us inside the enclosure, which is usually closed to the public.”

The tours cost £10 and are available for anybody over the age of 11 years.

Tickets can be bought from the trust online for tours on June 3, 11, and 24, and July 2, 15, and 23.

The spokesperson said a short walk to the enclosures was involved with pathways which could be uneven and slippery, so Wellington boots or outdoor footwear was recommended, along with weather appropriate and warm clothing, and a pair of binoculars.

Earlier this year the trust carried out the first legal release of two pairs of Eurasian beavers to live in the wild in Dorset for the first time since the 16th century.

Natural England chief executive Marian Spain said: “Beavers are much-loved creatures which offer huge benefits for our landscapes, from creating wetland habitats to natural flood management.”