Beavers: Nature’s Builders

Where Beavers Call Home

Beavers are the architects of our wetlands! These industrious animals make their homes in serene settings across Montana, from tranquil lakes to meandering rivers. 

Let's explore their watery world!

Tracking the Busy Builders

Ready to embark on a beaver search? Keep your eyes peeled for these clues:

• Lodge and Dam: Beavers build dome-shaped lodges and impressive dams, altering their environment in striking ways.
• Chewed Trees: Look for trees with gnawed bark and pointed ends, a sure sign of beaver activity.
• Muddy Trails: Beaver trails in the water are marked by muddy pathways leading to their lodges and feeding areas.

A Gourmet Diet: What's on the Menu

Beavers are discerning diners with a taste for the natural world:

• Bark Buffet: They munch on tree bark, especially aspen, willow, and birch.
• Aquatic Greens: Beavers enjoy aquatic plants, particularly in the summer.
• Winter Stockpile: In colder months, they dive underwater to retrieve stored branches from their underwater caches.

The Unique World of Beavers

Beavers are nature's engineers, known for their remarkable abilities: 

• Master Builders: Their lodges and dams create havens for them to live, safe from predators.
• Environment Shapers: By building dams, they help control water flow and create habitats for other wildlife.
• Night Owls: Beavers are primarily nocturnal, working tirelessly under the cover of darkness.

Next: Watch a meandering stream in action! >>