We were driving some back roads and came across this busy little beaver working to block the flow of water in one corner of the family compound. We watched for about 15 minutes and he/she did not appear to be bothered at all by our presence. We probably could have been quite a bit closer but there was a huge amount of poison ivy between us! For me at least, poison ivy is a better barrier than a chain link fence!
A large beaver [Castor canadensis] is smaller than its European counterpart, weighting in at about 30 kg and, including its strong tail, measuring about 1.3 meters long. It sees as well under water as it does above water. Beavers played a big roll in the development of our country [Canada], due primarily to the popularity of their pelts. This contribution and also, in recognition of their strong work ethic has led to the beaver being chosen as our national animal, appearing on coins, stamps and emblems, and as the symbol for numerous organizations.
