KNOWLEDGE BASE

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.

In this award-winning book, the author describes the various benefits which beavers can bring to ecosystems. Building on the metaphor of beavers as "ecological and hydrological Swiss Army knives," the book talks about how beavers relate to salmon, agriculture, water quality, and other issues. This accessible book includes anecdotes from around the USA and aims to grow support for beaver restoration. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

Rising temperatures are altering the Arctic tundra, with thawing permafrost and shrinking snow cover. This study revelas how North American beavers are expanding into the tundra of northwest Alaska, USA. Beaver ponds are thawing permafrost, exacerbating climate change, but are likely also creating new, diverse habitats. The full impact remains unclear but it is very possible that beavers' arrival will contribute to the disruption of the tundra ecosystem. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

This paper compared the skulls and jawbones of beavers from Slovakia with those from Ukraine and Poland. It found similarities between Slovak and Ukrainian skulls, which both differed more from the Polish beavers. The researchers also examined each beavers' ability to fell trees by comparing enamel thickness in their incisors.