Stuff You Should Know Selects: Beavers: Tail Slapping Fun
Dec 2, 2023
Discover the industrious lives of beavers, North America's largest rodents, known for their impressive building skills and strong family bonds. Explore their unique dams and lodges, which not only capture imagination but also play a crucial role in ecosystems. These clever creatures are natural architects, creating wetlands that enhance biodiversity. Learn about the intriguing dynamics of beaver society and the surprising challenges they face, including misconceptions from a shocking incident. It's a whimsical yet informative dive into the world of beavers!
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Beaver Size
- Beavers are the largest rodent in North America, weighing 15 to 65 pounds.
- Eurasian beavers are similar in size but can range from 20 to 70 pounds.
Beaver Tail and Swimming
- Beavers have a distinctive, scaly tail used for swimming, balance, and warning others of danger.
- They can swim up to seven miles per hour, close their nose and ears underwater, and have a nictitating membrane to protect their eyes.
Chuck's Lake Encounter
- Chuck Bryan recounts an encounter with a large mammal in a lake, possibly a beaver or otter.
- He notes the unsettling feeling of the animal submerging, highlighting the beaver's ability to hold its breath for 15 minutes.