Eurasian Beaver The Eurasian beaver is one of the most accomplished engineers in nature and by that has a disproportionate influence on its ecosystem. These shield-like rodents were once abundant throughout Europe and Asia until they almost disappeared from overhunting for fur to castoreum, a medical-perfume substance. However, their numbers have recovered because of conservation efforts in many parts of the world.
A Master Builder
Beavers are known chiefly for their construction of dams and lodges. They bite, so they bring down trees and gather sticks to carry into the water column. They carefully piece the rocks and sticks into dams that stretch from one to several meters, impounding water while reshaping a considerable amount of landscape.
The construction of the dams turns flowing streams into ponds that are important habitat for water dependent wildlife. The ponds slow down the flow of water into creeks, reducing erosion and improving water quality. They also provide refuge for many species of fish, amphibians, birds and mammals.
A Keystone Species
The Eurasian Beaver is classified as a keystone species; it has an impact on its surrounding environment and alters the behavior of wildlife. They build wetlands and maintain them, promoting biodiversity while sequestering carbon and providing flood control.
Unfortunately, this technical genius can also run counter to human self-interest. Their dams can flood farmland and obstruct drainage systems. These are problems that only can be resolved by responsible and sustainable management of the beaver population, as well as creating solutions to live alongside this fascinating mammal.
Conservation Efforts
Conservation have in recent decades, introduced beavers to areas where they once became extirpated. Some of these releases have been beneficial in the sense that they rejuvenated ecosystems with increased availability and quality of water.
Through understanding and celebrating them in their ecological context, we can help to protect the Eurasian Beaver; such a fascinating animal that has played its part for millennia!