Beavers are the second largest rodent in the world, after their cousin the Capybara. They are well known for their constructional and behavioural activities, building dams made up of logs, twigs and mud. Because of this, they have shaped the landscape especially in North America.
They possess an excellent ability to cut down trees with their teeth. Once they have felled the tree they will cut it into manageable lengths to ensure all parts of the tree can be taken to their lodge, which is made up of mud and sticks.
Beavers are very well adapted to the water. Their large flat tail provides steering and power. They have webbed hind feet and their ears and nostrils close when they are under water aswell as a special membrane which covers their eyes.
They live in family groups which consist of an adult male and female along with their young.