After being extinct in the UK for centuries, the recent reintroduction of beavers into English wildlife was celebrated as a “change in our relationship with the natural world”.

But now an eccentric baronet has threatened to scupper the £750,000 plans by posting a £1,000 ‘dead or alive’ reward for beavers he claims are ruining trees on his estate.

Sir Benjamin Slade, who owns Woodlands Castle, a 17th century house within 12 acres of private parkland in Somerset, says the animals are committing “crimes against trees” and breed “like rabbits”.

He has put up posters on his property reading: “Beaver sightings! At Woodlands Castle. Wanted dead or alive. £1,000 reward! For crimes against trees. Beavers have been cutting down our trees!”