KNOWLEDGE BASE

The Eurasian beaver is Europe's largest rodent. Over the course of one year, 19 beaver fecal samples were collected from three rivers in Slovakia to identify, for the first time, what parasites were accompanying beavers as they recolonised the country. Parasites were found in samples from only one out of the three rivers, identifying four types of parasite overall. The results illustrated how beavers can function as a reservoir for parasites; two of the parasites were also likely brought into the region by beavers.

Long-term beaver studies may include repeated capture to be able to assess how they are doing at various moments, but what is the impact of repeated capture on the beaver's welfare? Over 20 years, researchers in Norway found that this did have some impact. Dominant beavers (such as the parents, who tend to be bigger to start with) lost more body weight the more they were captured. However, overall, survival and body condition weren't affected. Older beavers experienced reduced litter sizes with increased captures.

This book weaves together evolutionary and ecological stories of 140 semi-aquatic mammals from history and the present day. It looks at some of the physical challenges that these species have to face, such as heat loss in the aquatic environment. The text also highlights the vital role of ecological engineers such as beavers and the common hippopotamus. It emphasizes the urgent need to understand and conserve these species and highlights successful stories of recovery. It is written in an engaging style with lots of illustrations. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

This study aimed to estimate the financial value of beaver activity across the northern hemisphere. Beavers perform important services such as water purification, habitat creation, and greenhouse gas sequestration. These services, previously unquantified, were valued at hundreds of millions of US dollars each year. Habitat provision and greenhouse gas sequestration were particularly valuable. These findings may inform future schemes for managing any conflicts arising between beavers and humans.

Built around the struggle to reintroduce beavers to Britain, this book weaves together historical accounts, personal anecdotes, ecological insights. It is an engaging read which also provides a detailed account of the political contention of beavers' reintroduction, including opposition shown by governments and, at times, angling communities. Please note, this resource is not open-access.