Hey guys, last spring, I came across a very old beaver dam, and it seems that a couple of two year olds are maintaining it. The area was originally a small stream that ran through an open, swampy bottom. Now there’s a small pond, but there are very few trees in the area. Most of the small willows that surrounded the pond are now gone, and the closest patch of trees are a good 60 yards from the bank. Will beaver stick to these areas, or do they usually travel on in search of better spots? It seems to me like these spots would be undesirable for beaver. Thanks

if the food isnt there they wont stay long. They will eat a lot of grasses and other foods however. Ive had spots where single old beaver never touch a tree.

could you make a small opening in the dam and find out

They will stay until no food or they feel the area is unsafe. I would bet they will be there until you remove them. Sarge

Where are you in Ohio? I have found, in these small Ohio streams they tend to migrate up stream. although they may feed on willows if there are an abundance of them in the near area. Also, look for any fresh cuttings. I have seen in a couple of streams I have trapped in the last few years, they will go to where there is some larger trees they can get to easy and build another dam. Walk up stream and watch for fresh sign … they will show you where they are.

Garry-

I trapped a spring fed pond/ lake once took 7 from that colony ...no trees were cut at all.
They fed on grasses, and lilly roots.

I trapped a roadside ditch that beaver dammed up-not a tree in sight.