Beavers are nature’s architects. Active molders of the environment, they cut down trees and modify woodlands, building dams that transform rivers and valleys into rich wetlands. And while these large rodents have long been known to be sources of food and furs to humans, a new study asks: how could beavers’ role as landscape shapers actually shape their relationship with humans?
How Did Beavers Impact Their Ancient Environment?
Examining 116 archaeological sites across Northern Europe, the researchers traced patterns of abundance of Eurasian beavers (Castor fiber), as well as other mammals and fish, as far back as 9,000 years ago, to the Mesolithic. And by tracing these patterns, they found that beaver-modified landscapes created more opportunities for humans to forage and obtain food.
