Beavers in Virginia
Beavers are the largest rodents in North America, weighing around 40 to 50 pounds and being up to 4 feet long (counting the tail.) The most common species of beaver in Virginia is the North American beaver.
While beavers spend most of their time chewing trees, they don’t actually eat the wood. They do eat tree bark, but they will also eat roots, leaves, fruits, and more. They have to chew something constantly because their teeth never stop growing. If they are unable to wear those teeth down, they can overgrow, making it impossible for the beaver to eat. This can eventually lead to death.
Beaver Habitat
Beavers exist almost everywhere in the US, and in Virginia, they are thought to exist in every county. They usually build dams to slow running water sources like streams or rivers. These lodges form an area of still water that provides food and shelter for families of 4 to 8 beavers.
Beavers are mostly nocturnal and are most active at night.
Beaver Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Beavers can damage and kill trees, divert water sources, and even cause flooding. While they don’t pose a direct threat to people, they can do a lot of costly damage. Their lodges can also disrupt aquatic ecosystems by slowing the flow of water. This affects the amount of oxygen that dissolves in the water, which makes the area less hospitable to fish.
If you’re concerned about beavers damaging your property, get in touch with a wildlife removal company to make a plan for deterrence or removal.
