A large, heavyset animal that is well known for building dams in small rivers and streams, often producing sizable ponds. Beavers have short legs, large, webbed hind feet, and can commonly weigh as much as 60 lbs. Using their powerful jaws and large teeth, beavers can bring down medium-sized trees, using the branches in their dams and eating the tender bark and buds. Beavers also build dome-shaped lodges out of sticks and mud with tunnel entrances below water level. During the early 1900’s, beavers were trapped to near extinction for their prized coats, but have made a strong comeback since then.
Wetland
Found throughout North America except for northern most parts of Canada and the deserts of the United States
Common
Crepuscular
Obvious dams, Piles of woodchips at the base of felled trees, paths where beavers enter and leave the water called "slides"
Eat bark and cambium (soft tissue under tree bark) as well as water vegetation
Beavers live in small colonies of related individuals and are territorial. They secrete a musk-like substance called castoreum to mark their territory. Beavers will slap their tails against the water to warn others of danger.
Beavers are a keystone species with large ecological impact. Their dams slow the flow of flood waters, prevent erosion and create habitat for aquatic organisms. Their dams also help with wildfire mitigation by creating wet, fire resistant landscapes.
Least Concern
