Q 01/05

Beavers are the second-largest living rodents. Which animal is the largest?

A) Porcupine

B) Capybara

C) Nutria

D) Muskrat

Answer · why

B) Capybara

The capybara of South America can top 60 kg; a big beaver reaches about half that.

Q 02/05

What gives a beaver's front teeth their distinctive orange colour?

A) Tree tannins

B) Fluoride

C) Iron compounds

D) Copper deposits

Answer · why

C) Iron compounds

The iron-hardened enamel sits on the front of the incisor, so the softer back wears faster and keeps the edge chisel-sharp.

Q 03/05

When a beaver slaps its tail hard on the water, what is it doing?

A) Attracting a mate

B) Stunning small fish

C) Testing the ice thickness

D) Warning other beavers of danger

Answer · why

D) Warning other beavers of danger

The crack carries a long way over water and usually sends the whole family diving.

Q 04/05

What kind of eater is a beaver?

A) Omnivore

B) Insectivore

C) Fish-eater

D) Herbivore

Answer · why

D) Herbivore

Bark, twigs, aquatic plants and sedges are the menu; the fish are just neighbours in the pond.

Q 05/05

What are baby beavers called?

A) Pups

B) Kits

C) Cubs

D) Calves

Answer · why

B) Kits

Up to four are born each spring or summer after a three-to-four-month gestation.