Beaver

Beavers are large, semiaquatic rodents in the genus *Castor*.

Beavers are large, semiaquatic rodents in the genus *Castor*. The two living species are the North American beaver (*Castor canadensis*) and the Eurasian beaver (*Castor fiber*). They are known for cutting trees and building dams, lodges, and canals in freshwater habitats.

Description

Beavers are large semiaquatic rodents with stocky bodies, short legs, webbed hind feet, and a broad flat tail. They are adapted for life in water and are among the best-known ecosystem engineers in the animal kingdom.

Habitat and range

Beavers live in ponds, lakes, rivers, marshes, streams, and nearby wetland areas. North American beavers occur widely across Canada and much of North America, while Eurasian beavers occur across parts of Europe and Asia.

Diet and behaviour

Beavers are herbivores that feed on tree bark, cambium, leaves, twigs, roots, and aquatic plants. They often prefer species such as willow, aspen, poplar, birch, and maple.

Dam building

Beavers build dams when needed to retain water and manage water levels. Their dams create deep water, help protect against predators, and support stable entrances to lodges and food caches.

Conservation status

Both living beaver species are listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, and beaver populations have rebounded in many regions after historical declines from trapping and habitat loss. Conservation status can vary by region, but beavers are not generally endangered in Canada.