Do you know the difference between a beaver and an otter? They may look similar, but there are some key differences between these two animals.
In this blog post, we will discuss the physical characteristics of beavers and otters, as well as their behavior and diet.
We will also explore the similarities and differences between these two creatures in order to help you identify them in the wild!
Beaver
The Beaver is North America’s largest rodent, and it is a fascinating creature!
This animal has a unique diet and interesting behavior. Beavers live in colonies and build dams with sticks and mud to create ponds where they can swim and store food. They are also known for their industrious nature, as they often gnaw on trees to create canals so that they can have easy access to food and water.
Did you know that the Beaver is a keystone species? This means that they play an important role in their ecosystem. Beavers create wetlands which are home to many other animals, plants, and insects. Wetlands are also important for filtering water and controlling flooding.
The Beaver has two furry ears and a large, flat tail. Their fur is brown and oily, which helps to repel water. Beavers are excellent swimmers and can stay underwater for up to 15 minutes!
Beavers are mostly nocturnal animals, but they can sometimes be seen during the day. They mate for life and typically have litters of two to four kits (baby beavers).
Beavers have many predators, including wolves, bears, cougars, and humans. Despite this, their populations are stable.
Did you know that the beaver is North America’s largest rodent? At an average weight of 60 pounds (27 kg), these animals are much larger than your average house mouse! The beaver has a unique diet and interesting behavior. Beavers live in colonies and build dams with sticks and mud to create ponds where they can swim and store food. They are also known for their industrious nature, as they often gnaw on trees to create canals so that they can have easy access to food and water.
Otters
There are 13 otter species of carnivorous mustelid living around the world, including the giant river otters, North American river otters, Asian small-clawed otters, European otters, Japanese river otters, and African clawless otters.
Only one species of otter lives in the UK and is still an elusive animal to encounter, although it has made a resurgence since the 1950s owing to its endangerment.
The North American river otter is a carnivorous mammal that is found in freshwater habitats throughout Canada and the United States. These otters are the smallest of the otter species, measuring in at 26-36 inches in length and weighing 10-15 pounds.
The European otter is the most widely distributed otter species being widely spread across Europe. The otter is believed to be extinct in Liechtenstein, the Netherlands, and Switzerland.
Otters are now very common along the coast of Norway and in Northern Britain, especially Shetland where 12% of the UK breeding population exist.
An otters diet mainly consists of fish, however, it can also include birds, insects, frogs, crustaceans and small mammals. This opportunist mammal may inhabit any unpolluted body of freshwater, including lakes, streams, rivers and ponds, as long as there is good supply of food. Otters may also live along the coast in salt water, however, they require regular access to freshwater to clean their fur.
Beaver vs Otter Physical Differences
Beavers are much larger than otters. An adult beaver can weigh up to 60 pounds, while an otter only weighs around 15-25 pounds.
Beavers also have a large, flat tail that they use for swimming and balance.
Otters, on the other hand, have a long, slim body with a long tail that tapers to a point.
Beaver vs Otter Behavioral Differences
Beavers are mostly active at night, while otters are active during the day.
Beavers build dams and lodges out of sticks, branches, and mud in order to create a safe home for their families.
Otters, on the other hand, do not build homes. They live in dens that they dig into the ground or find under rocks.
Beaver vs Otter Dietary Differences
Beavers are herbivores and their diet consists mostly of bark, leaves, and twigs.
Otters are carnivores and their diet consists mostly of fish and crustaceans.
Now that you know the difference, you’ll be able to identify them in the wild!