Beavers are semi-aquatic rodents recognized for their remarkable engineering capabilities, particularly their construction of dams and lodges. These skilled builders shape their environments, creating wetlands that support diverse ecosystems. Beavers are strict herbivores.
Beavers and Apples
Beavers do eat apples, often consuming them opportunistically when available. They are known to eat fallen apples from the ground and may even climb trees to reach higher fruit. While apples can be a treat, they are not a primary food source for beavers.
The Beaver’s Typical Diet
The natural diet of beavers primarily consists of woody and herbaceous vegetation. They frequently consume the inner bark, known as cambium, as well as the twigs and leaves of deciduous trees. Preferred tree species include aspen, willow, birch, cottonwood, maple, oak, and alder. Apple trees, including their bark, are also among the types of trees beavers will chew on.
Their diet varies seasonally; during spring and summer, they consume more soft vegetation such as aquatic plants, grasses, sedges, rushes, and water lilies. In contrast, their winter diet largely shifts to woody materials, often sourced from food caches stored underwater. Beavers possess specialized microorganisms in their digestive systems that enable them to break down cellulose from plant matter.
Apples as Part of a Beaver’s Diet
Apples provide beavers with natural sugars, carbohydrates, and water, offering a rapid energy boost. They also contain some vitamins, such as Vitamin C and certain B vitamins, and minerals like potassium. However, apples do not offer a complete nutritional profile for beavers. They lack the protein and fiber found in the woody vegetation essential for their dental health and overall well-being. Excessive consumption of sugary fruits could potentially lead to digestive issues or nutritional imbalances if it displaces their natural, more nutrient-dense diet.
Keeping Beavers Away from Apples
To protect apple trees from beaver activity, several non-harmful deterrence methods can be employed:
Wrapping the base of individual trees with sturdy wire mesh is an effective strategy. Galvanized weld mesh, with a 2×4 inch opening and at least three to four feet in height, is recommended. Leave a gap of several inches between the mesh and the tree trunk to allow for future growth and prevent beavers from gnawing through the mesh.
For orchards or groups of trees, installing perimeter fencing around the entire area can prevent access.
Removing any fallen apples from the ground can also reduce attraction to the area.
Applying an abrasive paint mixture, typically sand mixed with exterior latex or acrylic paint, to the tree trunks up to at least four feet.