Beavers are the largest rodents in North America, ranging in weight from 30 to 75 pounds, with an average length of 45 inches including the tail. They are found near wooded ponds and streams. Beavers are primarily aquatic and are excellent swimmers. They use their hind feet, which are webbed, and large, flat tail to propel themselves around the pond. They are adapted to life in the water, and can stay under for up to fifteen minutes.
Beavers are crepuscular, meaning they are active at the twilight times of dawn and dusk.
The saying 'busy as a beaver' holds true, as these mammals are constantly building and repairing lodges and dams, and foraging for the vegetation which they eat. It is easy to know a beaver is in the area even if you do not see the animal. Beaver houses may vary in size. They are basically huge piles of sticks and mud hollowed out from the inside. Some animals begin construction of their lodge by using a tree that has tipped over, exposing the roots.