Busy Beaver

For the past week or so, before I see any sign of the eagles, I've been watching a resident beaver.  Of course, when he's most active is while it's still dark.

In fact, the first time I spotted something in the water, I didn't know if it was a muskrat or a beaver.  But then I just watched noting it's behaviors.  Swim with head above the water so so long, then dive.  Watching the water ripple as it swam it was easy to pinpoint where it would surface.

Then as daylight came, I saw just how busy it's been!

Without beavers, we wouldn't have what we have today.  They are ecosystem engineers, carpenters and plumbers.  

You laugh, but when they hear their dam leaking, they feel compelled to repair it immediately.  Although they are a rodent (the second largest I think), they are quite intelligent.  The dams they build filter and purify water and create habitats for many, many species of animals including fish, water fowl, and mammals, let alone help the surrounding vegetation flourish.

Now I'm wondering if I'l be able to watch it's progress as I watch for the eagles.  Yep, it might be a busy Winter!

seeing, saying, and sharing...

Busy Beaver

with you and those at

Natures Notes 2