Beaver population recovery benefits local biodiversity

The sign, installed near a pond in the Lubliniec forestry district, was intended to alert walkers to fallen trees and pointed stumps. Foresters responded with humour, advising visitors to imagine the warning sign was still standing and remain cautious when walking around the pond.

Poland’s beaver population has recovered significantly, rising from approximately 235 animals in 1928 to around 150,000 today. Postwar reintroduction efforts helped restore the species, whose dams retain water and support biodiversity.

Although beavers can damage roads, farmland and buildings, ecologists highlight their contribution to drought prevention and the creation of valuable habitats for other wildlife.