Physical characteristics:
* Large size: Beavers are the second-largest rodents in the world, after capybaras. They can weigh up to 70 pounds (32 kg).
* Flattened tail: Beavers have a wide, flat tail that they use for balance, steering, and communication.
* Webbed hind feet: Their hind feet are webbed, which helps them swim.
* Strong teeth: Beavers have large, sharp incisor teeth that grow continuously and are perfect for gnawing wood.
* Waterproof fur: Their thick, dense fur helps them stay warm in cold water.
Behavior:
* Excellent engineers: Beavers are famous for building dams and lodges. They use their teeth to fell trees and construct elaborate structures from branches and mud.
* Nocturnal: They are mostly active at night.
* Social animals: Beavers live in family groups called colonies.
* Herbivores: Beavers feed on trees, bark, and other vegetation.
Ecological importance:
* Ecosystem engineers: Beaver dams create wetlands, which provide habitat for many other species and help control flooding.
* Water filtration: Beaver dams help filter water and improve water quality.
* Forest health: Beaver activity helps maintain forest health by promoting diversity and reducing wildfire risk.
Fun fact: Beavers are the only animals besides humans known to build structures for the purpose of changing their environment.