Aquatic Engineers Exhibit

Aquatic Engineers Exhibit

Aquatic Engineers

Welcome to a world built by beavers! These large aquatic rodents shape water flow by building dams and runways, creating a network of ponds and channels. The engineered environment protects the beavers from predators and encourages the growth of the wetland plants they feed on. 

The Ojibwe word for Beaver is “Amik.” 

The sound of flowing water triggers a beaver’s urge to build a dam. Look for sticks and small tree trunks with gnaw marks. These indicate that beavers are close by.

 A beaver’s “construction tools” include sharp incisors, powerful jaws, nimble front paws, and a strong flat tail. 

Beavers build fortress-like lodges out of sticks and packed mud to protect and shelter their young, called kits. 

Underwater entrances help keep out predators such as bears, wolves, coyotes, and owls.