Beaver numbers across Tayside have increased in the past six years, according to a new Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) survey. Whilst welcoming the expansion of the species, the Scottish Wildlife Trust is warning that without legal protection these beavers are at risk of unregulated, and possibly inhumane killing. The SNH report estimates that around 430 beavers live in over 100 active beaver territories in Tayside. A 2012 survey estimated beaver numbers across the region at about 150 beavers in 40 territories. Nick Halfhide, SNH’s Director of Sustainable Growth, said, “By building dams, beavers improve local water quality and help nurture…