KNOWLEDGE BASE

In response to the Scottish Government announcing that Eurasian beavers would be allowed to stay in Scotland, this study aimed to understand how their activity might influence sensitive species and habitats in Scotland. It used a computer model to identify where beavers might build dams then looked for overlap with vulnerable habitats and species. The findings suggested that beaver activity could be extensive: overlapping little with areas of freshwater pearl mussel and Atlantic salmon but more with certain woodland habitats. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

This paper compared the food preferences of Eurasian beavers in two different Polish forests. Beavers preferred aspen in one forest, but showed a stronger preference for cherry, alder, and willow in the other. The paper also analysed the relationship between tree damage, tree size, and distance from lodges. Finally, the paper reported on the temporality of beaver activity - noting a peak in harvesting immediately before and after the winter season.

In this text, researchers summarised what was known about the extent of the beaver population in Rostov, Russia. Over 2,300 individuals were estimated, with a preference for building burrows over huts. The authors suggested that the beavers would likely expand in the future, southwards towards the Azov Sea. Please note, this text is mostly written in Russian.

Scent-marking is common in mammals. In Norway, researchers studied scent-marking in subordinate (young) Eurasian beavers. Experiments showed subordinates contributed to territorial marking, but their role was minor. However, their involvement increased as their parents got older, perhaps as they get closer to inheriting the territory. Experience in territorial activities probably helps subordinates secure their own territory, too.

Beaver wetlands are used by birds during different stages of their life. Scientists studied how Common Teal ducks in Finland at different stages of their reproductive life used beaver ponds. The positive results suggest beavers could help create and restore habitats for waterfowl.