Beavers are the largest rodent in the United States and number 2 worldwide behind the capybara. While coming across one up close may be scary, our ancestors had it much worse. The Giant Beaver could grow to over 7 feet and weigh about 275lbs, and the front teeth were 6 inches long. If you could transport back in time in central and northern Illinois, you probably would get a firsthand experience. There have been significant findings of them here in at least seven documented locations. Thankfully, today’s version averages around 31inches and 60lbs.
They are natural swimmers and can hold their breath underwater for 15 minutes. While under, their ears and nose close to keep water out. A transparent eyelid comes down and acts as goggles so they can see. The babies can swim within 24 hours of being born. In the 1600s, the Pope decreed that they could be considered fish due to their habitat and a scaly tail. This allowed Catholics to eat them during fasting days. At about the same time, the beaver trade in North America was so great that access to prime hunting grounds led to a war between the Iroquois and Huron in 1649.
Many of us partake in the beaver trade without knowing it. For bakers, and candy and perfume makers, castoreum has been used as a vanilla flavoring and scent for over 90 years. This goo comes from the beaver’s butt when they are marking their territory. While we are in the area, they can’t burp but can fart.
Today, beavers are protected in Illinois. For landowners with a beaver problem, The Illinois Department of Natural Resources suggests hiring a professional like Wildlife Services. For those thinking of ridding them yourself, killing one is against the law in Illinois; and a DNR District Wildlife Biologist must approve you for a permit to remove them.
They are so ingrained in our culture that April 7th is International Beaver Day. This does not mean we want them building a lodge or dam on our properties. The dams can cause flooding that damages landscapes and gardens. The structures they build are only limited by the space available. In Wood Buffalo National Park, Alberta, Canada, there is a dam over a half-mile long and it can be seen from outer space. Their lodge usually has two dens, one where they dry off and one where they socialize. They don’t mind friends living with them and have been known to share a lodge with muskrats.
As rodents, their teeth continually grow, and the animal needs to gnaw continually to grind them down. When you add in their appetite for tree bark and using trees for construction, it is crucial to remove them to protect the arborage.
In Northern Illinois, if beavers are causing you a problem, Wildlife Services is the one to call. Our experts have been dealing with the local nuisance wildlife for a long time.
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