Nibi the beaver, a rescue found on a Massachusetts highway as a baby two years ago, has captured the hearts of many across the globe. Now, as her potential release back into the wild looms, those who love her—including her rescuers and supporters—are left heartbroken. The debate over whether Nibi should stay in human care or return to the wild has grown so significant that it has even drawn the attention of the state’s governor.

On Friday, October 4, the Massachusetts Supreme Court will rule on whether Nibi will bid farewell to her human caretakers. Rescued by Newhouse Wildlife Rescue as an orphaned beaver kit, Nibi quickly became an internet sensation. Known for her playful behaviour and quirky habit of building dams indoors using twigs, the beaver has charmed everyone around her. However, the central question remains: where does she truly belong—under human care or in the wild?

The Debate: Wild or human care?

One school of thought argues that Nibi, who has never experienced a winter in the wild, should be released to ensure her survival in her natural habitat. But others believe she may not be equipped to handle the harsh realities of life in the wild. It’s well-documented that animals raised in captivity often face significant challenges when released into the wild. They may struggle to navigate open spaces far larger than their enclosures, which can lead to stress, heart complications, and even death. Other risks include predators, infections, and extreme weather conditions. For Nibi, these dangers are particularly concerning.

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Court battle over Nibi’s future

On Tuesday, October 1, Newhouse Wildlife Rescue successfully secured an injunction to prevent Nibi’s release. The rescue centre, alongside 25,000 petition signers, is advocating for her to remain in their care.

Even Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has weighed in, seemingly in favour of Nibi staying with her caregivers. However, as a protected species, Nibi’s fate will ultimately be determined by wildlife laws.

The legal battle pits Newhouse Rescue against MassWildlife, the state’s wildlife agency, which is pushing for Nibi’s release. According to Jane Newhouse, the founder of the rescue centre, Nibi is unlikely to survive in the wild. Efforts to socialize her with other beavers have failed, suggesting that Nibi has formed stronger bonds with humans than with her own species.

Newhouse expressed her concern that releasing Nibi could result in her death, noting that the beaver lacks the skills needed to build a lodge, store food, or survive a harsh winter.

For now, Nibi lives in a spacious enclosure with a pool, receiving round-the-clock care, food, and affection from her human rescuers. However, her future remains uncertain as the court prepares to issue its ruling on Friday. Whether Nibi stays with the people who saved her or faces the wild, one thing is clear: she has sparked an emotional debate about the complexities of animal care and wildlife conservation.