This archaic creature – that does not live in the mountains and is not a beaver– is a small endemic (not found in other areas of the world) rodent that lives in underground burrows along the west coast of America. While they are expert at digging, they can also climb and swim well.
Mountain beavers are considered ‘living fossils’ because they have a simple bone structure that is quite similar to ancient relatives. They have continuously growing front teeth, like beavers, mice, etc. (although the same ancient relatives do not share this trait), but lack the complex jaw structure that other rodents have. Because of these unique characteristics, the mountain beaver is the only living member of its genus, Aplodontia.
Mountain beavers are herbivores and prefer sword and bracken fern, which are toxic to other herbivores. They also eat the cambium layer of coniferous and hardwood trees, flower bulbs, tree seedlings, ornamental plants, and newly sprouted garden plants.
Aplodontia in Bridle Trails
Since this animal is mostly nocturnal, they are rarely seen in the park and are more likely to be spotted in home gardens near the park. Their burrows are extensive and are often seen at the edge of trails in the park. The park ranger marks and fills these holes as they can be a danger for horses that step in them. These creatures are highly sensitive to climatic changes, which makes Bridle Trails the perfect habitat for them.
More Information:
Check out Clark the Mountain Beavers website to buy a children’s book (written by a local Washingtonian), download a coloring book, and more!
Photo credits: WyEast, Scientific American (Darren Nash), Portland Audubon.