Beavers are back

This time starting on the other end of the property where the creek flows off my land.  They have created a series of at least 3 dams, possibly more (not sure what they have done downstream , but the water is clearly backed up after my property line) really slowing the creek and building water volume.

This batch is smarter than the first - the series of dams helps prevent washouts by slowing and spreading flow during heavy rain events.  And they started in a less elevated section, so the water is already somewhat slower.  Last time they got washed out pretty quick, and it has been a couple years since they returned.  

Really interesting to see how far they will drag trees and branches - they actually create trails into the creek from the surrounding hillsides by dragging.

Also surprising is how much they like young pines - wouldn’t  have thought that would be a favorite, but it clearly is.

Amazingly industrious - in about a week it went from no sign of beavers to all kinds of signs of their engineering work.

Cool Artie;  They sure are amazing critters to watch!
Is most of your land "safe" from the expanding ponds?
Set up a game cam if you have one,and get some photo's of master engineer's at work!

Artie that is very cool. Beavers are amazing

Really great to see! Thank you for sharing! Beavers also really like western red cedars. It's interesting what they like and don't like!

As an Aussie, I love the story of beavers.
Its frightening to remember who they were shot for hats.
Anyway, we still have them and its good to see the work they do.
I m amazed when I see articles from people complaining about them.
I wish they would just learn to live with them.
I have kangaroos to deal with here, years ago people complained and shot them.
They jump across the roads from nowhere, leap over fences on to a vehicle or just bounce down a road in the ark, causing many accidents.
I found slowing down saves the ay.
But people still get upset.
Anyway, enjoy beavers please.

Beavers are still building, the dam is in good shape after several days of heavy rain last week. They were definitely smarter this time around, building a series of dams to protect the downstream dam.