G01-1434 Controlling Beaver Damage

This NebGuide describes beaver biology and behavior and characterizes the types of damage caused by them. It suggests control methods and equipment and describes legal restrictions. The beaver (Castor canadensis) is the largest rodent in North America. Adults weigh about 40 pounds and have been known to weigh up to 60 pounds or more. Beavers are admired for being industrious, curious, and social. Historically, both the American beaver and the European beaver (Castor fiber) were overharvested to near extinction. In recent decades, however, both species have been rapidly increasing