Shot Beaver Fig Finds Love After Scotland Rescue

When Fig the beaver arrived at Scotland's National Wildlife Rescue Centre, he had been shot in the face, lost two teeth, and had shrapnel embedded throughout his head. Thanks to months of careful rehabilitation, he's now thriving in the wild with a mate and babies of his own.

A member of the public discovered Fig injured near Fishcross, Scotland, and immediately contacted the Scottish SPCA. The animal welfare team took him to their National Wildlife Rescue Centre, where staff assessed his serious facial injuries.

The damage looked severe at first. Fig had lost two incisors, critical teeth that beavers use for cutting wood and building dams. But veterinarians found good news beneath the trauma: the tooth roots remained intact, meaning they could grow back naturally during his recovery.

Under the care of the centre's dedicated team, Fig slowly healed. His teeth grew back, his facial wounds closed, and his strength returned. After months of rehabilitation, wildlife experts determined he was ready to return home.

The Scottish SPCA partnered with the Beaver Trust and Argaty Red Kites Centre in Doune to release Fig into a safe habitat. The team chose the location carefully, ensuring he'd have everything needed to build a new life.

Why This Inspires

Fig didn't just survive. He found a mate and started a family, showing that proper rehabilitation can help animals fully recover and thrive. Dr. Roisin Campbell-Palmer from the Beaver Trust says seeing him raise young proves he's healthy, settled, and able to live naturally.

His recovery represents more than one animal's success story. It demonstrates how wildlife rescue centres can make real differences when they receive proper support and resources.

The Scottish SPCA continues pushing for stronger animal welfare protections across Scotland. The charity has published a manifesto with specific requests to prevent harm to wildlife and reduce repeat offences.

Fig's journey from victim to parent shows what's possible when people care enough to help.