It’s no surprise that the beaver has some interesting attributes. They are a powerhouse for the ecosystem, with their presence improving water quality, increasing biodiversity, creating wetland habitats for other species, and much more.
You may know some simple facts about beavers, but there are quite a few details about them that aren’t nearly as well known. To better understand the primarily nocturnal rodent, here are some amazing facts about the North American beaver.
- Beavers have a set of transparent eyelids that enable them to see underwater – effectively, they have built-in swimming goggles.
- Beavers, second only to humans, are one of the few animals that manipulate their environment. In fact, the largest dam in existence is located in Wood Buffalo National Park in Alberta, Canada. It stretches almost 800 meters and is visible from outer space.
- Beavers don’t actually live in dams. Rather, beavers make their homes in lodges, dome-like constructions built from branches, mud, and moss.
- Beavers are well adjusted to the cold — they are seen actively throughout winter and continue to use their local ponds even when they are covered in a layer of ice.
- Unsurprisingly, these stocky mammals are one of the largest rodents on the planet. Their large teeth also never stop growing – which is why they constantly gnaw on wood to keep them from growing too long. Similar to how humans file their nails.
- There are two species of beaver: The North American beaver and the Eurasian beaver. While they might be similar in appearance and in their mannerisms, the two species aren’t genetically compatible, meaning they cannot mate and bear kits.
- Beavers work on their local ecosystem, making them a keystone species in maintaining habitats — meaning many other species rely on them. As well as wetlands, beavers create standing deadwood, attracting insects and various bird life.
- Beavers are actually really great house guests. Their lodges usually have two dens: one for drying off after coming in from their underwater entrance, and a second den where the family lives and socializes.
- Not only that but muskrats have been known to take shelter in beaver lodges. Nature’s first Airbnb hosts!
- Contrary to popular belief, beavers will fell particular trees for specific uses. A larger, mature tree is usually felled to create the foundation of a dam. A young, second-growth tree will be felled to be consumed as food. Beavers will fell broad-leaved trees to encourage regrowth, providing more food within their reach.
- Beavers use their broad tails similar to rudders, allowing them to steer themselves underwater while acting as a sort of kickstand that helps them balance while sitting on land. They also slap their tails against the water as a warning against potential predators.
- While very uncommon, beavers have been known to attack domestic pets and, in rare circumstances, humans. Beavers are known to be very territorial and protective of their land but are more likely to retreat when encountered by humans. Having said that, if a beaver is infected with rabies or is caught off guard during the daytime, it is possible they will attack out of fear. It’s best to appreciate beavers from afar.
- Ever wonder why beavers have orange teeth? Well, while other rodents have magnesium in their tooth enamel, beaver teeth have iron, causing the orange coloration of their chompers.
Believe it or not, those aren’t all of the interesting facts about the world’s second-largest rodent. It’s a good start for those looking to educate themselves on this keystone species, whose valiant efforts support their ecosystems for the better.