Beavers play a crucial role in our ecosystem, and they inhabit rivers, lakes, and ponds all around the world. There are many misconceptions surrounding these rodents, and it’s time to debunk some of the most common myths surrounding them.
Dam Building
It’s no secret that beavers are amazing dam builders, but this rule doesn’t apply to all of them. North American beavers are more prone to building dams in an attempt to create a deep-water refuge, while Eurasian beavers only do it depending on the habitat.
Eating Fish
It’s a common misconception that fish are an important part of the beaver’s diet. Beavers are strictly herbivores and mostly eat woody, herbaceous, and aquatic plants, so you won’t really catch them eating fish.
Quick Breeding
Rodents tend to breed and reproduce quickly, but that’s not the case with all of them. Beavers are an exception to this rule, and they usually only give birth to 2 to 6 kits once per year.
Quick Tree Eaters
Trees are a part of the beavers’ diet, but that doesn’t mean they can eat them at record speed and flee the area once they’re done. Beavers prefer fast-growing trees, such as poplar, willow, and water shield, and they can even promote their growth.
