Nature's Engineers
Beavers are sometimes called nature's engineers. An engineer is someone who designs and builds things, and beavers are amazing builders.
Using their strong front teeth, beavers cut down small trees and branches. They pile the wood across a stream and pack the gaps with mud and stones. This dam slows the water and makes a deep pond.
In the pond, beavers build a home called a lodge. Its entrance is underwater, which helps keep the family safe from predators such as wolves.
Beaver ponds help other living things, too. Ducks, frogs, fish and moose often visit or live in the wetlands that beavers create.