KNOWLEDGE BASE

Researchers implanted radio transmitters in 22 adult Eurasian beavers. They tested two different anesthesia combinations. One group experienced muscle issues and sensitivity to sound while under anaesthetic. The other group, with an added drug, had better muscle relaxation and didn't react to sound. One beaver died after surgery, but all others continued to live in their original territory unaffected by the surgery.

Researchers found that beavers preferentially cut down cottonwood trees over invasive species like Russian olive and tamarisk. They focus their foraging near river channels, creating sunny areas that promote the growth of the invasive species, leading to faster growth. The researchers warn that those wishing to reintroduce beavers along these rivers in Montana, USA, should consider the potential effect on invasive plant species.

Researchers studied how beavers affect vegetation, small mammals, and amphibians. They compared stretches of 5 streams in Oregon, USA - some occupied by beavers and some unoccupied. They found that beaver-influenced areas of the streams had more diverse plant life and had a higher presence of certain mammalian species. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

This book recounts the history of wildlife conservation from the 19th century to today's global movement. It explores the legacy of big game hunting, battles for national parks, and debates on sustainable wildlife use. The over-hunting of beavers is mentioned as having moved President Roosevelt in the earliest days of the National Parks movement in the USA. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

This study describes the Eurasian beaver's return to Luxembourg. Researchers describe beaver activity along a river between 2000 and 2002, demonstrating a preference for cutting willow trees, especially those which are small and close to the water. This matches findings in other places and shows the importance of riverside plants for beaver conservation.