KNOWLEDGE BASE

This article reports on the death of a 5-month-old orphan beaver whilst in a rehabilitation centre. The beaver died of a disease called systemic toxoplasmosis which hadn't been reported in beavers before. The authors present technical information on how this disease affected the beaver and suggest that this disease should be considered as a risk when rehabilitating young beavers. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

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.

The last century of environmental changes in Nova Scotia is described, drawing on literature, community knowledge, and personal experience. The complex interactions of disease, human activity, and animal expansion are set out. The restoration of beavers is considered one of the major events of this history.

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.

Woody debris in rivers can provide important habitat, on the one hand, and increase flood risk, on the other. This study examined woody debris on the Rhône river in France. Most wood came from natural sources, with 83% broken or cut by beavers. The results also showed that more frequent floods led to more woody debris on the river. The larger pieces of wood (diameter >12.5cm) were mostly human-cut. Please note, this resource is not open-access.