Mountain Beavers

The diet of mountain beavers is entirely herbivorous, consisting of a wide array of ferns, shrubs, and tree seedlings. They are particularly fond of succulent green vegetation, which they need both for nutrition and to maintain hydration. In managed forests and landscaped areas, mountain beavers can become a nuisance by stripping bark from trees, eating ornamental plants, and damaging commercial crops, often resulting in the need for control measures to protect vegetation.

Mountain beaver scat is distinctive and can offer insights into their presence and feeding habits within a specific area. Their droppings are typically cylindrical, small to moderate in size, and found in piles near the entrances to their burrows or feeding sites. The scat often contains undigested plant material, reflecting their herbivorous diet. Identifying mountain beaver scat is important for recognizing their activity, especially in areas where they are not commonly seen but may be causing damage to vegetation. Proper identification and management of scat, along with other signs of mountain beaver presence, can assist in developing effective strategies to mitigate the impact of their burrowing and feeding on residential properties, commercial forestry, and agricultural lands.

Tracks of mountain beavers are seldom seen due to their secretive nature and preference for dense vegetation. When visible, their tracks can be identified by the distinctive five-toed prints of both their front and rear feet, which is unusual among rodents of their size. The tracks may also show evidence of their dragging tail. While direct sightings of mountain beavers or their tracks are rare, signs of their presence, including damaged vegetation and burrow entrances, can help in identifying and managing populations in areas where they are considered pests.