Beavers also keep their fur waterproof by rubbing an oily substance on their fur that is secreted from scent glands. Beavers have large webbed hind legs that act as paddles when they swim through the water. They have a large flat tail that helps them steer through the water. They also have clear eyelids that make it possible for them to open their eyes underwater. These animals can stay under water for as long as 15 minutes because of their specially adapted lungs.
Beavers have wide, hairless, flat tails.
Their tails are not only used for steering but also for balance, warning signals, and fat storage. When beavers chew on trees they use their tail like a kick stand to give them support. When a beaver feels threatened by danger it will slap its tail on the water as a warning to the predator. Beavers also store fat in their tails for the long, cold winters. Beaver dams and lodges are two easily identifiable clues of beaver activity.