Beavers

All About Beavers.

BEST KNOWN AS DAM BUILDERS, beavers are large, water-dwelling members of the rodent order of animals. They are skilled engineers that build dams across streams to create calm ponds where they build nests called lodges. They feed on the bark and leaves of the trees in their surroundings.Beavers move awkwardly on land, but are fast movers in water. They have streamlined bodies with short legs, webbed hind feet for swimming, and small ears. Their dense fur keeps them warm in or out of water.

DAMS AND LODGES

Beavers dam their home stream using branches cut from trees, mud, and stones taken from the bank using their front paws. The dam stops the flow of the water, and a deep pond forms behind it- this is where the beavers build their family home or lodge. Here they can shelter from cold weather and be protected from enemies.

AT WORK

Beavers live and work in close-knit family groups. They are active during the day, working together to fell trees and cut branches which they carry through the water in their mouths. If a beaver spots a predator, it slaps its tail on the water’s surface to warn other family members to swim for safety.