Fauna
Mammal

North American Beaver

Castor canadensis

Also known as American Beaver, Canadian Beaver

North American beavers are nature's premier ecosystem engineers, transforming dry landscapes into rich wetland habitats through deliberate dam construction. They possess orange, iron-fortified incisors capable of felling massive trees, alongside a broad, scaly tail used for balance, steering, and slapping the water to warn kin of danger. Family groups inhabit elaborate lodges constructed from sticks and mud, working collaboratively to stockpile underwater caches of branches before winter freezes the surface.

Semi-AquaticEcosystem EngineerNocturnal
North American Beaver reference1 / 6
(c) Rodney Campbell, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAspen Bark, Willow Shoots, Water Lilies
Predators
  • Gray Wolf
  • Cougar
  • Black Bear
ThreatsHabitat loss, trapping, conflict with human infrastructure
HabitatsWetlands, ponds, lakes, rivers, streams
Life span10–20 years in the wild
Classification
  1. OrderRodentia
  2. FamilyCastoridae
  3. GenusCastor
  4. SpeciesCastor canadensis
Range & activity
Native Introduced

Native range in olive; established introduced range in rust.

Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Possesses powerful incisors and strong jaws; observe from a respectful distance along waterways.
Why it is dangerous
Equipped with continuously growing, iron-chiseled incisors capable of delivering deep, severe bites if cornered or threatened.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognized by its large stocky body, dark brown waterproof fur, and broad, flat, scaly paddle tail.
What to do
Never approach or attempt to handle wild beavers; keep dogs on leash near active lodges and dam sites.
Responsible observation
  • Patience at Dusk: Scan tranquil ponds near dawn or dusk when beavers emerge to forage and maintain lodges.
  • Listen for Tail Slaps: A sharp, loud slap on the water surface signals danger and warns family members.
  • Maintain Distance: Observe lodge activity from shore with binoculars to avoid disrupting their routines.
Related species
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Found in Collections

Ecosystem chain

Wetland Territory

North American Beaver is found in this collection. Identify it in Fauna to fill this slot and continue your progress.

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