Buzz
Back in 2007, ecologist Jean Thie was exploring the Alberta wilderness using Google Earth to research permafrost melting in Canada's wild regions. Suddenly, something extraordinary caught his eye: a beaver dam so massive that it surpassed the Hoover Dam's length by more than double.
Situated at the edge of Wood Buffalo National Park in Alberta, Canada, this colossal beaver dam stretches at least 2790 feet. It likely incorporates thousands of trees and seems to have been built by the collaborative efforts of at least two beaver families. Construction is thought to have started as far back as 30 years ago.
Though a remarkable example of animal ingenuity, the dam isn't particularly picturesque. “The chaotic mix of mud, branches, stones, and twigs is covered in grass, indicating its long-standing presence,” Atlas Obscura notes. “Spanning a secluded wetland, the dam offers the beavers ample fresh water and abundant resources for construction.”
Indeed, the dam is situated in such a remote and challenging part of Canada's swamplands that it remained untouched by humans until 2014, when Rob Mark from the Explorers Club of New York City undertook the arduous journey. Starting his expedition in Fort Chipewyan, over 120 miles distant, he spent five grueling hours navigating the final mile due to the extremely soggy terrain. “It was the only solid ground for miles, so I was thrilled to finally stand on it,” he remarked upon reaching the dam.
Beavers construct dams for numerous purposes, including food storage. These industrious animals stash supplies of food at the bottom of ponds and build dams to deepen the water, ensuring their reserves remain unfrozen. Additionally, dams act as a protective barrier. “They create a water-rich environment, akin to a moat surrounding their lodges, allowing them to swim and dive, staying ahead of predators like coyotes and bears,” biologist Sharon Brown explains to The Telegraph.
This isn’t the only extraordinary beaver habitat in Canada. Thie also found that Pakwaw Lake in Saskatchewan boasts what is likely the highest concentration of beaver dams in the country, and possibly globally—with over 20 dams and lodges per square kilometer (approximately 247 acres)!
