Beavers Resettled in West London Help Prevent Flooding at Tube Station
The Story
Greenford Tube station in West London had a history of flooding during heavy rain until beavers were resettled nearby in October 2023. Conservationists obtained a government license to place a family of five beavers in a 20-acre urban park, formerly a golf course, containing a creek. Within weeks, the beavers dammed the creek, creating a pond and a wetland that absorbs heavy rainfall and stops water from spilling into the city. The beavers also diverted the creek’s flow into smaller tributaries. Their work has mitigated flooding risk downstream and allowed the city to scrap expensive plans to build a reservoir and levee. The beavers built their house from scratch using local wood and kept unusual hours, sleeping during the day and working at dawn and dusk, even putting their young to work. Sandbags still line the corridor at the station, but the flooding has ceased.
Key Facts
- Greenford Tube station used to flood during heavy rain until two years ago (as of May 2026).
- In October 2023, a family of five beavers was resettled in a 20-acre urban park near the station.
- Conservationists obtained a government license for the resettlement.
- The beavers dammed the creek, created a pond, and diverted flow into smaller tributaries.
- The resulting wetland absorbs heavy rainfall and mitigates flood risk downstream.
- The city scrapped expensive plans for a reservoir and levee because of the beavers’ work.
- Sandbags still line the corridor at the station.
Conflicting Reports
No conflicting reports identified in the source article.
Still Unclear
No open questions identified in the source article.
Misconceptions
No widespread misconceptions addressed in the source article.
Key Figures
No specific individuals named in the source article.
Sources: marginalrevolution.com
