Intro

The builders who shape our landscape.

Look carefully as you walk along a river in Central Switzerland and you'll see trees and shrubs with conspicuous gnawing marks: clear signs of a beaver at work. The largest native rodent lives unseen in a burrow that can only be reached under water, which is how it protects itself and its young from unwanted guests. When dusk falls, it swims off in search of food. Beavers build dams out of branches and clay so that their burrow stays submerged and they can reach their food through the water. They are strict vegetarians, so willow, ash or poplar branches are their most common sources of food, but they may also eat meadowsweet, purple loosestrife, dandelion or even corn or sugar beet. In autumn they also fell tall trees to reach their branches. Beavers always stay close to the water when searching for food, so they can quickly dive back to safety in case of danger.

More informations


Latin name:Castor fiber
Natural habitat:Lakes, rivers and streams in Central Switzerland
Size:Head and body length 80 – 100 cm
Weight:23 – 30 kg
Population:1,600 animals
Breeding season:No hibernation
Migration:May

Source Pro Natura