How to Build Dens, Stock Up, and Care for Others 0 9

Principle No. 1. In any unclear situation, dive into the water

In the water, a beaver feels much more confident than on land. The awkward and bulky creature on the shore becomes fast and strong in the water. This does not apply to land predators that pose a danger to beavers, such as wolves, lynxes, and bears. Although a bear may attempt to catch a beaver in the water, its chances of success are significantly lower than on land.

Principle No. 2. The entrance to the dwelling must be protected by a "water lock"

This is necessary to protect against land predators. That is, the hole of the burrow or den must be located underwater. If this condition is not met, it is necessary to either remodel the dwelling, find another body of water, or raise the water level with a dam.

Principle No. 3. If you notice something strange or dangerous on the shore, slap your tail on the water

Just in case. First, this will help warn your kin of danger. Second, the loud sound may scare off a potential threat.

Principle No. 4. After swimming, take care of your fur

Beavers, like all semi-aquatic mammals, have magnificent fur. No matter how much a beaver swims in cold water, it will feel warm as if wearing a good wetsuit. However, without proper care, the fur will quickly deteriorate and start to let in water. It needs to be regularly squeezed and combed. For this, a beaver has a special tool — a grooming claw.

Principle No. 5. After grooming yourself, take care of your kin

Beavers are social animals. They choose a life partner for life. Living in a tight den and managing a household together, they care for each other. For example, allogrooming is the affectionate grooming of one beaver by another. Family members also sleep together, sometimes one beaver lays its head on the tail of another instead of a pillow.

Principle No. 6. Love your family, be wary of neighbors

The tenderness and care of a beaver extend only to its family. Beavers are strictly territorial animals, guarding their territory from neighboring families and wandering individuals. A beaver crossing the boundary of another's settlement (the boundary is marked with scent markings) risks being attacked. This makes sense — outsiders can destroy the vegetation that the family relies on or attempt to drive out the owners and take over their territory. To avoid trouble, adult beavers regularly patrol the borders of their holdings.

Principle No. 7. In autumn, prepare thoroughly for winter: stock up on branches

With the onset of autumn leaf fall, beavers begin to gather branches for winter. The stored branches are submerged near the burrow or den so that in winter, during particularly harsh times, they do not have to venture out onto the snow for fresh branches. Retrieving branches from the stock under the ice is much safer.

These fundamental rules of beaver life, tested over time, are passed down from generation to generation and ensure their prosperous existence in our lakes and rivers!