Beavers are New York State’s official mammal. They are large rodents, weighing between 26-65 pounds and measuring 25-35 inches long, with a broad, flat tail. Beaver populations in New York declined sharply due to overtrapping and habitat loss but have since rebounded.

Like most rodents, beaver construct a den or lodge with multiple entrances. Beaver differ from other rodents not only in size, but the fact that beavers alter their surroundings to suit their needs.

Websites

• Beaver – NYSDEC
• Facts About Beavers In The Adirondacks
• Suny ESF – Beaver
• New York State Animal | Beaver
• How beavers built New York
• Meet your New York State mammal: the beaver
• Why Are Beavers on the Seal of NYC?
• American Beaver Status – New York Natural Heritage Program

Videos

• Beavers and Why They Matter
• Watershed Animal Spotlight – The American Beaver
• Beyond Dams and Lodges with naturalist and author David Hall