Opposition to plans to introduce beavers to Scotland is strongest around the proposed sites, although the move is welcomed by the wider population, according to a study.

Opposition to plans to introduce beavers to Scotland is strongest around the proposed sites, although the move is welcomed by the wider population, according to a study.

Almost three out of four people in mid-Argyll support the idea of reintroducing the beaver to the Knapdale Peninsula, however, the majority of those who live closest to the proposed trial sites are opposed, according to the Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT) and the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS).

The organisations have released results from their consultation on a proposal for a trial reintroduction of beavers to the Knapdale area.

The animals were hunted to extinction in Scotland in the 16th century.

Plans will soon be submitted to ministers for a licence to catch 15 to 18 beavers from Norway in autumn 2008, quarantine them and then release them at Knapdale in spring 2009.

Views from local residents, businesses, groups and other interested parties in the vicinity of the proposed trial site were sought.

The consultation asked two key questions: would you like to see beavers in Scotland? and would you support a trial reintroduction of beavers to Knapdale?

A total of 466 people submitted a formal response. A further 16 organisations submitted their views.

More than 80% of the responses received were from Mid-Argyll residents. From these responses, 72% were in favour of beavers returning to Scotland, while 73% would like to see beavers being reintroduced in Knapdale Forest, Mid-Argyll.

Respondents commented that the trial would bring benefits to biodiversity and habitat management, wildlife tourism and would result in the return of a native species.

Nearer the trial site, views were more mixed. In the Knapdale area (in and around Tayvallich, Achnamara, Crinan, Bellanoch and Cairnbaan), 57% were against the trial.

Comments received from those opposing the trial included: environmental and socio-economic impact, the length of the trial, historical evidence of previous beaver populations, the consultation process, insurance and compensation, the presence of non-native species, and the best use of limited resources.

Simon Milne SWT's chief executive, said: "These results show that the majority of those living and working in the Mid-Argyll area appear to be in favour of the trial. This reaffirms the conclusion of previous consultations that there is widespread local public support for this project."

He said they had responded to questions during the consultation and where practicable would address the issues raised when they applied to the government for a licence.

Mr Milne added: "We feel, that the level of local support shown is sufficient to justify our proceeding with our detailed licence application to the Scottish Government, and are grateful to all those who took the time and trouble to respond to the consultation."