They also live along rivers, on timbered marshland and around forest-edged lakes. They prefer remote areas, but will live near man if other sites aren't available. Beavers prosper in maple, aspen and willow environments. The dam building of beavers affects many other wildlife species. After a dam is built, a portion of a wooded valley is changed to an open pond.
Ponds vary in size from a few to many acres.
They provide habitat for ducks, geese, shore birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians. Otters, raccoons, minks, herons, ospreys, hawks, owls and other predators are attracted by the rich variety of life and food. Their dam usually lasts several years longer, accumulating silt, leaves and other organic material. Finally during the spring thaw, or after a long, hard rain, the dam gives way. Most of the pond water drains off, leaving an open area.