Watercolor illustration of Canadian beaver (Castor canadensis)

Canadian beaver

Castor canadensis

Not Evaluated
Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
15 years
Length
1.0 m
Weight
25.0 kg
Population
15.0M
Trend
→ Stable
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About

The largest rodent in North America, Canadian beavers weigh up to 32 kg and are master ecosystem engineers inhabiting rivers, lakes, and wetlands across Canada and the northern United States. By felling trees and constructing dams up to hundreds of meters long, beavers create ponds that provide habitat for hundreds of species. Their lodges and canals transform entire watersheds. Once nearly hunted to extinction for their fur, beaver populations have recovered strongly.

Fun Facts

  • Beaver dams can be seen from space.
  • Their teeth are orange because they contain iron.
  • They can hold their breath for up to 15 minutes.

Diet & Behavior

🌿
Herbivore
Canadian beaver is classified as herbivore, adapted to its ecological niche.

Diet

🌿 Herbivore
Plant matter 100%

Names in Other Languages

Spanish Castor Americano
French Castor canadien
German Amerikanischer Biber
Russian Bobr Kanadskii

Similar Species in Castor

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of Canadian beaver?
The scientific name of Canadian beaver is Castor canadensis. It belongs to the genus Castor.
Where does Canadian beaver live?
Canadian beaver is found in Widely distributed across Europe (15 countries), North America (United States), and South America (Argentina, Chile).. Countries include Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Chile, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Luxembourg, Netherlands.
What family does Canadian beaver belong to?
Canadian beaver (Castor canadensis) belongs to the genus Castor, which is part of the taxonomic family Castoridae.
What does Canadian beaver eat?
Canadian beaver is herbivore. Its diet is adapted to its natural habitat and ecological niche.
How long does Canadian beaver live?
Canadian beaver has an average lifespan of approximately 15 years in the wild.
How many Canadian beaver are left in the wild?
The estimated wild population of Canadian beaver (Castor canadensis) is approximately 15,000,000 individuals.
What kingdom does Canadian beaver belong to?
Canadian beaver (Castor canadensis) belongs to the kingdom Animalia (Animals).
What are the closest relatives of Canadian beaver?
The closest relatives of Canadian beaver in the genus Castor include Eurasian beaver.

Native Range — 18 Countries

Genus Castor — 2 Species

🦫
Canadian beaver
Castor canadensis
NE
🦫
Eurasian beaver
Castor fiber
VU

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