Guard hairs are about 3 inches long and natural oil keeps the fur waterproof. The oil comes from two glands near the anus. The beaver distributes the oil throughout its coat with both front and back paws. Combing the fur also eliminates parasites, removes dirt and stops fur from matting. Members of beaver colonies spend hours preening each other's fur.
Beavers have long incisors that grow constantly.
These teeth are exceptionally sharp and are hardened by dark, orange enamel. The front incisors enable the beaver to cut through very large trees. Lips can be closed behind these incisors allowing the animal to eat twigs while underwater. Beavers are great architects. They build lodges in the center of bodies of water and dams to ensure they have open water during the winter months.