Introduction: The Eurasian Beaver

The Eurasian beaver, also known as the European beaver, is a fascinating aquatic mammal that has captured the attention of researchers, conservationists, and nature enthusiasts alike. It is one of two extant species of beavers, the other being the North American beaver. The Eurasian beaver is native to Europe and Asia, and was once widespread throughout its range. However, due to extensive hunting and habitat loss, its population declined dramatically in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the species is considered a conservation success story, as it has been successfully reintroduced to many parts of its former range.

Taxonomy and Distribution of the Eurasian Beaver

The Eurasian beaver is classified as Castor fiber in the family Castoridae. It is the largest rodent in Europe, and the second-largest in the world after the capybara. The species has a wide distribution, ranging from Scandinavia in the north to the Black Sea in the south, and from the Atlantic coast in the west to the Ural Mountains in the east. Historically, the Eurasian beaver was also found in the British Isles, but it was hunted to extinction there in the 16th century. Today, the species is present in many European countries, including Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Poland, Germany, France, Spain, and Romania, among others. It is also found in parts of Asia, including China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan.