Beavers are extremely gentle, family-oriented animals who mate
for life and remain lifelong friends with their offspring. The
second-largest rodent in the world, the beaver can live 19
years, reach 60 pounds, and grow up to 4 feet long. Baby
beavers, or "kits," are usually born to hard-working, loving
parents who have been together for many years. Female beavers
are especially busy as they care for their young while looking
after their rambunctious "teenagers." Read More Beavers are
master architects—their complicated, well-built lodges can stand
for years. These "busy beavers" take pride in their work and are
constantly concerned with repairs to their homes. Beavers'
activity helps keep stream beds healthy and in good repair, and
beavers are a keystone species in an ecosystem because they
create wetlands that are used by many other species. When
startled or frightened, a swimming beaver will rapidly dive
while forcefully slapping the water with his or her broad tail.
This creates a loud sound, audible over l