FAQ: How big are Eurasian beavers?

Beaver family group copyright Jonathan Usher SmithBeavers can grow to the size of a tubby spaniel, they usually weigh between 16–30kg, measuring 60–90cm in body length, with tail lengths of 20-35cm.  It is hard to tell the sex of a beaver from its appearance.  Unusually for mammals, female beavers are the same size or slightly larger than males of the same age. They are uniquely adapted for a semi-aquatic lifestyle, with a sleek waterproof coat, large flattened muscular tail and webbed hind feet to provide propulsion underwater.

« back to FAQ's

Official Beaver Blog

Get up-to-date news direct from the field: Official Beaver Blog

Comments of Support

"The beaver is a missing part of our watery landscapes and has a role to play in the healthy functioning of wetland habitats." - Stephanie Hilborne, Chief Executive for The Wildlife Trusts

Beaver Trial Supporters

Beaver Trial Supporters
People's Postcode Lottery
PTES

See our other supporters

Partners

The Royal Zoological Society of ScotlandScottish Wildlife Trust
Forestry Commission Scotland

The Royal Zoological Society of ScotlandScottish Wildlife Trust