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Beaver

(Castor canadensis)

Size:

  • 25 to 30 in. (63 to 76 cm) not including tail.
  • Tail length is up to 9 to 10 in. (23 to 25 cm).
  • Weighs up to 65 lb. (30 kg).

Distribution in North America:

range map

 Beaver
Beaver with tail showing - USFWS photo
beaver track
Tracks
front: 2 1/2" x 3 1/2"   
 hind: 5 1/2" x 7"

Habitat:

  • Waterways with tree-lined banks.
  • Builds dams across waterways or cone-shaped homes at the edge of still water. Both structures consist of branches and mud.

Notes:

  • Nocturnal.
  • Thick body, short legged, with a broad head and short neck.

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Be sure to check local regulations for hunting or trapping information on this species.

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