KNOWLEDGE BASE

In this paper, researchers tested different ecological theories by predicted how habitat influences beaver survival. It used the case of the North American beaver in Alabama, USA. The results did not align with any of the theories, which suggests that beaver survival is much more complicated than being based on habitat alone.

In areas of Poland where the high population density of beavers causes economic losses, hunting is permitted during certain times of year. Beaver meat is consumed and treated as a delicacy by hunters. However, this study reported the first finding of a Trichinella spiralis larvae in beaver meat: a potential health risk for humans consuming beaver meat.

In Eastern Germany, Eurasian beavers and Eurasian otters share the same waterways. This study sought to understand how they interacted. It found that otter activity reduced only slightly with increased beaver activity, suggesting both species can coexist. The use of camera traps showed that beavers and otters were most active at different times of the day (and also at different times of year). Otters had a lot of fish to hunt in the area, and beavers had little need to build dams on rivers this wide and deep.

One key element of rewilding is the fact that it gives autonomy to non-humans in how ecosystems evolve. However, there's limited research on how this autonomy operates in practice. This study explores how beaver reintroduction in Scotland in both the Tay catchment (unlicensed) and at Knapdale (licensed) shows different types of non-human autonomy. It discusses governance and power dynamics in rewilding efforts.

Trapping has ancient roots, used by civilisations around the world for food and fur. This book contains advice on how to successfully trap animals including the beaver, including information on the different types of trap, where to set the trap, and the proper use of scents. It is suitable for beginner and experienced trappers alike. Please note, this resource is not open-access.