Scientifically known as Castor canadensis and known best for its dam building, the North American Beaver is a semi-aquatic rodent physically distinguished by its broad, flat tail. It is identified as the largest rodent in North America and the second largest in the world just behind the capybara.
The purpose of dam building is to create a deep pond in which the beaver can establish its home. The dam is constructed across streams and consists of a pile of sticks with underwater entrances as the beaver is a skillful swimmer. The home or burrow is then made out of sticks and twigs as well.
North American Beavers have a height of 14.2”-16.9” (36-43 cm), body length between 29”-35” (74-89 cm), and an overall weight in the range of 25-75 lb (11.3-34 kg). The tail length of a North American Beaver is 7.9”-13.8” (20-35 cm). North American Beavers have a typical lifespan of 10-15 years in the wild and up to 15-25 years in captivity.
Scientifically known as Castor canadensis and known best for its dam building, the North American Beaver is a semi-aquatic rodent physically distinguished by its broad, flat tail. It is identified as the largest rodent in North America and the second largest in the world just behind the capybara.
The purpose of dam building is to create a deep pond in which the beaver can establish its home. The dam is constructed across streams and consists of a pile of sticks with underwater entrances as the beaver is a skillful swimmer. The home or burrow is then made out of sticks and twigs as well.
North American Beavers have a height of 14.2”-16.9” (36-43 cm), body length between 29”-35” (74-89 cm), and an overall weight in the range of 25-75 lb (11.3-34 kg). The tail length of a North American Beaver is 7.9”-13.8” (20-35 cm). North American Beavers have a typical lifespan of 10-15 years in the wild and up to 15-25 years in captivity.