Wildlife Removal Services Inc.

Beaver

Biology:   The beaver is the largest North American rodent.  Their habitat can be almost anywhere there is a year-round source of water.  Beavers build dams to modify their surroundings more to their liking.  They are adaptable and will use whatever materials are available.  They also build lodges and dens for raising young, sleeping and food storage.

Mating Habits:   Beavers are generally monogamous.  They may mate in the water or in the lodge or den.  Mating generally takes place between November and February.  They generally become sexually mature by the age of 1 ½ years.

Gestation Period:   Approximately 128 days is normal.

Birthing Times:   Between March and June.

Litter Size:   3 – 4 kittens per litter is typical.

Life Span:   Average life span is 10 years with some individuals living to 21 years.

Foods:  Prefer certain trees and woody species, such as aspen, cottonwood, willow, sweetgum, blackgum, black cherry, tulip poplar and pine.  However, they can and will eat leaves, twigs, and bark of most species of woody plants that grow near water and a variety of aquatic plants.

Hibernation:   Beavers do NOT hibernate.  They are typically active up to 12 hours per night except on the coldest winter nights.  Some may be seen during daylight hours.

Legal Status:  Not protected by federal law, but state & local regulations may apply.

Catch & Release Status:  It is ILLEGAL to release this or any animal on the land(s) of another without written permission from the landowner.  This is the LAW in the state of Ohio.