KNOWLEDGE BASE

This study preceded the trial reintroduction of beavers to Scotland. Predictions of their impact had been made based on data from other European countries. This study aimed to improve those predictions by examining beavers in captivity in Eastern Scotland. The first year of monitoring showed that willow trees were most favored for felling, with alder and birch also affected. The study also presents data on beavers' preferences for tree size and location, as well as the rate at which they felled trees.

In this study, scientists researched the behaviour and habitat of a fish species called the Salish Sucker in British Colombia, Canada. One of their findings was that this species rarely crossed beaver dams.

This study compared beaver willow-eating patterns and willow tree distribution on two rivers in Colorado, USA: one free-flowing, the other whose flow is regulated by a man-made dam. Despite similar willow abundance in both rivers, beavers cut significantly more willow on the latter river because the regulated flow created island patches near the water, making the willow more easily available to beavers.

This study examined the eyes of sixteen healthy beavers from Canada. Eye structure, bacterial and fungal flora, and intraocular pressure were measured. Typical Canadian beaver eyes have circular pupils and a third eyelid; most eyes had bacteria but no fungi. Their retinas lack blood vessels. Please note, this resource is not open-access.

Six pairs of Eurasian beavers in Norway had their daily routines studied over two years, with researchers tracking the time spent traveling, eating, and being in their lodge. They found that males spent more time traveling than females, but otherwise, there were no significant differences. While the study had a small sample size, it provides evidence that male and female beavers share similar responsibilities in caring for their offspring. Please note, this resource is not open-access.