'CONKER', ‘Swampy’, and ‘Woody’ are among the list of possible names for three new additions to Delamere Forest’s expanding beaver family.

In July, Cheshire Wildlife Trust (CWT) announced the arrival of three new ‘kits’ to proud parents, Rowan and Willow, who joined siblings Bramble and Aspen, born in 2022.

When Rowan and Willow were release at the end of 2020, they became the first beavers to call Cheshire home in more than 400 years, after the species was hunted to extinction in England during the 16th century.

Since the announcement in July, CWT members and supporters have been suggesting names for the new arrivals, forming a longlist of 350 names. 

Northwich Guardian: Kev Feeney of CWT has become so associated with the project he's known everywhere as 'the beaver guy'Kev Feeney of CWT has become so associated with the project he's known everywhere as 'the beaver guy' (Image: CWT)

These have now been wittled down to 15 by 'beaver guy' Kev Feeney, CWT's nature recovery programme manager. 

The final names for the younglings will now be decided by public vote, and polling is open now.  

Kev said: “I kind of like Swampy. There’s an obvious tree theme going on, but as there are three, it’s always nice to have a bit of a rebel.

“It's important to get the public involved as beavers have been missing from our society for well over 400 years, and probably longer from Cheshire.

“When people are that disconnected from a species, we need to work hard to bring it back to their attention.

Northwich Guardian: Rowan and Willow have called Hatchmere Nature Reserve home since 2020Rowan and Willow have called Hatchmere Nature Reserve home since 2020 (Image: Rachel Bradshaw)

“Cheshire has really taken the beavers to its hearts. It’s a really popular project. I’m now ‘the beaver guy’ wherever I go.

“We’re starting to look at beaver reintroduction more widely, not just in Hatchmere.

“We’re proving they’re doing a lot good – they improve water quality, reduce flooding, and it’s become an oasis for other wildlife.

The top fifteen names to choose from are: 

  • Acorn
  • Alder
  • Birch
  • Bracken
  • Caster
  • Chestnut
  • Conker
  • Juniper
  • Maple
  • Moss
  • Oak
  • Sprig
  • Swampy
  • Timber
  • Woody

Kev added:  “If we want to see beavers properly wild again in England, the only obstacle is people.”

“So it follows - the more we get the public involved, the more straightforward it’s going to be.”

To vote for your favourite three names, visit: cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/nameourkits

Voting closes at 5pm on Saturday, September 30, and the winning names will be announced on Wednesday, October 4.