Quick answer
The North American beaver is a large rodent that fells trees and builds dams and lodges, creating wetlands that benefit fish, birds, and other wildlife. Adults weigh 16–32 kg (35–70 lb), have webbed feet and a flat tail, and can stay underwater for up to 15 minutes.
Key takeaway
The North American beaver is a large rodent that fells trees and builds dams and lodges, creating wetlands that benefit fish, birds, and other wildlife. Adults weigh 16–32 kg (35–70 lb), have webbed feet and a flat tail, and can stay underwater for up to 15 minutes.
North American Beaver overview
North American Beaver (Castor canadensis) is a mammal listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight 16–32 kg (35–70 lb); lifespan around 10–20 years in the wild.
North American Beaver ecology
Diet: Herbivore — bark, twigs, aquatic plants, and roots. Habitat: Rivers, lakes, and ponds across North America. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
North American Beavers and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild north american beavers are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full North American Beaver profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Dam building
Beavers cut trees with powerful incisors and weave branches into dams that raise water levels, protecting lodge entrances and creating ponds. These wetlands filter water, reduce flooding downstream, and provide habitat for hundreds of species — beavers are considered ecosystem engineers.
Lodges and family life
Beaver families live in dome-shaped lodges with underwater entrances. Kits are born in spring and stay with parents for up to two years, helping maintain dams and learn construction skills. Castoreum from scent glands marks territory.
Sources
North American Beaver FAQs
What are key facts about north american beavers?
The North American beaver is a large rodent that fells trees and builds dams and lodges, creating wetlands that benefit fish, birds, and other wildlife. Adults weigh 16–32 kg (35–70 lb), have webbed feet and a flat tail, and can stay underwater for up to 15 minutes.
What is the scientific name of the north american beaver?
Castor canadensis — used in research and conservation listings for north american beavers.
What do north american beavers eat?
North American Beavers eat bark, twigs, aquatic plants, and roots, with seasonal and regional variation in Rivers, lakes, and ponds across North America.
Where do north american beavers live?
They are associated with Rivers, lakes, and ponds across North America. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of north american beavers?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.