Have you ever wondered how to build a beaver?
Honestly, the concept had never crossed my mind. So, when I heard that was the program for the Hungry Mother State Park JR. Rangers this morning, I knew I had to go.
Gwen Kirby, Park Naturalist, began the program with an overview of the beaver. Where does the beaver live? What makes the beaver unique? And this is how it was demonstrated to a group of future naturalist.
1 – The beaver is covered with a warm coat that is water resistant.
2 – The beaver’s web feet help the beaver to move through the water with ease.
3 – The tail of a beaver has many uses. It can be used to help guide the beaver as it swims, it can be used to warn other animals of danger, or it could even be used as a seat for the beaver.
4 – The beaver has 3 eyelids, one of which is clear. The purpose of the third eyelid is to protect the beaver’s eyes and allow it to see while swimming under water.
5 – The beaver can hold its breath for 15 minutes while it swims underwater.
6 – And last but not least, the teeth. A beaver’s teeth never stop growing and are used throughout its life to cut trees for shelter and food. The beaver’s teeth are covered with a coating that protects and adds strength to the teeth.
I would bet that this group of kids won’t forget about the beaver any time soon.
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