- Dam building: Beavers are famous for their ability to build dams across streams. These dams can range in size from a few feet wide and high to several hundred feet wide and high. Dams create ponds that can provide habitat for a variety of aquatic and terrestrial animals, and can also help to slow the flow of water downstream, reducing downstream flooding and erosion.
- Lodge building: Beavers also build lodges, which are structures that provide them with shelter from the elements. Lodges are typically built in or near the water and are made from a variety of materials, including sticks, branches, mud and leaves. Lodges can be used by beavers for several years, and can even be passed down from generation to generation.
- Canal digging: Beavers sometimes dig canals to transport water from one location to another. These canals can be used for a variety of purposes, such as bringing water to their dams or lodges, or creating new wetland areas.
- Tree felling: Beavers often fell trees to use as building materials for their dams and lodges. Tree felling can also be used to clear areas for foraging, or to create new wetland areas.
Beaver dams can create ponds that provide habitat for a variety of aquatic and terrestrial animals, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Dams can also help to slow the flow of water downstream, reducing downstream flooding and erosion. In some cases, beaver dams can even help to improve water quality by filtering out sediment and nutrients.
Beavers are important members of many forest ecosystems, and their activities can have a significant impact on the environment. By altering their environments, beavers can create new habitats, improve water quality, and reduce flooding. As a result, beavers are often considered to be ecosystem engineers.