In recent news, beavers have been making headlines due to their role in ecosystem restoration efforts. Their ability to create dams and alter water flow has been recognized as beneficial for biodiversity and water quality in various regions. Additionally, conflicts have arisen in urban areas where beavers' dam-building activities have caused flooding or damage to infrastructure, leading to debates on coexistence strategies.
Beavers, belonging to the genus Castor, are large, semiaquatic rodents known for their impressive dam-building skills. The two extant species are the North American beaver (Castor canadensis) and the Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber). Beavers are primarily nocturnal and herbivorous, feeding on bark, twigs, and aquatic plants. Their dams, constructed from branches, mud, and rocks, create wetland habitats that support diverse wildlife and help regulate water flow. Beavers are considered a keystone species due to their significant impact on the environment.