Massachusetts Governor Grants Reprieve to Beaver

Nibi was found on the side of a road when she was just a baby. Efforts to familiarize her with other beavers were not successful and she preferred to be near humans, according to Newhouse Wildlife Rescue (Photo: Jane Newhouse/Newhouse Wildlife Rescue via AP)

The question of whether a two-year-old beaver named Nibi can stay with the rescuers she has known since she was a baby or must be released into the wild was resolved when the Massachusetts governor stepped in to protect Nibi.

The state issued a permit to Newhouse Wildlife Rescue for Nibi to remain at the rehabilitation facility and serve as an educational animal.

“Nibi has captured the hearts of many of our residents, mine included,” Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey said. “We’re excited to share that we have issued a permit for Nibi to remain in Newhouse’s care, continuing to educate the public about this important species.”

Nibi’s fate had made it all the way to the state courts before Healey stepped in.

“It’s very difficult to consider releasing her when she only seems to like people and seems to have no interest in being wild or bonding with any of her own species,” said Jane Newhouse.

Nibi has a large enclosure with a pool at the rescue operation, and will wander in its yard and rehabilitation space, Newhouse added.

“She pretty much has full run of the place. Everybody on my team is in love with her.”


(Photo: Jane Newhouse/Newhouse Wildlife Rescue via AP)

Sources:

https://www.mass.gov/doc/defendants-response-to-the-motion-for-injunctive-relief/download

https://apnews.com/article/nibi-beaver-release-massachusetts-governor-d4d96214a18b1c41b8945e2c9d813f98