Known for their buckteeth and flat tails, they are the most hard-working rodent in the world. They almost became extinct during the height of the fur trade, but now Canada's national symbol is thriving.
Jul 02, 2009
SOURCE: The Sault Star
National Status
The beaver's emblematic status originated from the fact much of Canada's early economic history was tied to the fur trade in beaver pelts, used to make hats fashionable in Europe.
Although the beaver has been used on stamps (the "Three Penny Beaver" of 1851), money (nickel) and various emblems throughout history, it did not attain official status as an emblem of Canada until it received royal assent on March 24, 1975.
- Valves in ears and nose close when they swim underwater. Eyes have a clear protective layer for underwater swimming.
- The beaver waterproofs its fur by coating it with an oily secretion from its scent glands.
Largest rodent in North America
Weight: Full grown, 16 to 32 kg.
Length: 60 to 80 cm.
Fur: Thick brown fur coat and a soft grey undercoat
The tail
- flat, paddle-shaped
- about 30 cm long
- covered with scales
- used to steer when swimming or for balance when sitting on land
- if an enemy is near, the beaver slaps its tail on the water to warn other beavers
- Webbed hind feet, short front legs, with heavy claws
Valves in ears and nose close when they swim underwater. Eyes have a clear protective layer for underwater swimming.
The beaver waterproofs its fur by coating it with an oily secretion from its scent glands.
One beaver cuts down an average of 216 trees a year. It can fell trees up to about 40 cm in diameter.
LODGES
Lodges are about 5 metres wide by 2 metres high. The size of the lodge depends on the size of the family group, number of years of occupation and fluctuating water levels. Lodge is made of mud branches
Mud is plastered on the outside of the lodge
- makes it stronger
- prevents enemy break-in
- keeps it warmer in the winter
The dens are constructed on a platform 10 cm above the waterline so the beaver remains dry. The beavers create them by gnawing out space in the pile of mud, twigs and bark that constitute the lodge.
Underwater entrance
Two entrances allow for a means of escape if a predator enters the lodge through one of the tunnels.
The dam
Dams are built to hold back the water and to form a deep pond. The pond must be deep enough so water will not freeze to the bottom. Dams are built at a narrow point in the river, where the current is fastest. Rocks, branches and mud are piled to create a very stable earthwork that can endure great pressure.
