Wildlife Rescue Fighting to Keep Hand-Reared Beaver in Its Care After Being Ordered to Release Animal

Nibi, a domesticated beaver, will remain at Newhouse Wildlife Rescue until further notice

Animal advocates are rallying together to help a beloved beaver named Nibi remain at a rescue facility in Massachusetts.

Nibi’s story went viral earlier this week when Newhouse Wildlife Rescue shared a message via Facebook with news of a pressing situation.

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“MassWildlife has officially denied Nibi as an educational beaver. They want her released as soon as possible. We are all heartbroken but have no control over this situation. I am devastated,” the organization wrote on Monday, Sept. 30.

A Change.Org petition that followed highlighted the fact that Nibi is a domesticated beaver, and having been raised under the care of humans means that her chances of survival in the wild are significantly lower than if she were to remain at Newhouse Wildlife Rescue.

“We firmly believe, that by granting Nibi an educational license, she could serve as an ambassador for her species and future generations, while remaining safely under the care she is used to,” the petition stated.

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“Newhouse Wildlife has always been an important part of our community, playing a vital role in our understanding and appreciation for wildlife," the petition added. "The forced removal of Nibi is not only a risk to her personally, but also a serious setback for our community's engagement with wildlife."

As of Wednesday, Oct. 2, it had received more than 26,000 signatures — more than half of its 35,000 signature goal.

Newhouse Wildlife Rescue shared the petition, as well as frequent updates on its Facebook page, thanking all who have supported their cause in protecting Nibi.

“UPDATE: Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife sent an email saying they will not be taking Nibi today,” the rescue organization said on Tuesday, Oct. 1. “The INCREDIBLY dedicated lawyers at TEPER LEGAL were up all night working on paperwork and have filed an emergency injunction against the commonwealth.”

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Soon after, it announced that Judge Cathleen Campbell had “signed an order PROHIBITING the removal of Nibi from Newhouse Wildlife.” Her decision remains effective “until there is a full hearing and further order from the court,” however, that particular date has not been shared publicly.

Since the temporary protection order was issued, Newhouse Wildlife Rescue has continued to thank those who have helped, reminding them that the organization is “not funded by our state. We survive off of your donations and could really use your help with the expenses of saving our local wildlife.”

“I want to let you all know how much I appreciate you and how much your support has meant to us. We couldn’t have come this far without you,” the rescue facility said.

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