The names page homage to their unique abilities at birth
New Bedford, Massachusetts: In June BPZOO announced the birth of three American beaver babies, known as kits, to first time parents eight-year-old female Wicket and six-year-old male Justin. Zoo Veterinary staff was able to determine the sex of each kit in early September through an x-ray.
âWe have officially determined that two if the kits are girls, and one is boy,â said Zoo Veterinarian Dr. Emmy Budas. âThey are all very healthy and currently weigh around 15 lbs.â
Animal cares staff came together to brainstorm names and collectively decided on Scuba and Snorkel for the girls and Surf for the boy, paying homage to beavers extraordinary ability to swim immediately after being born.
While American beaver populations are stable in the wild, these new arrivals are excellent ambassadors for their species, giving BPZOO the opportunity to showcase the vital role beavers play in our ecosystems.
Acting as natureâs engineers, beavers are known for their extraordinary ability to transform their surroundings through activities such as dam building using sticks, mud, and stones. These dams create ponds and wetlands that support diverse ecosystems, serving as crucial habitats for fish, amphibians, birds, and many plant species, promoting biodiversity. The dams also play a critical role in maintaining water levels in streams and rivers. By trapping sediments and improving water quality, beaver dams contribute to healthier aquatic environments. The wetlands they create also act as carbon sinks, aiding in climate change mitigation. These industrious engineers are known to alter their environment the most compared to any other organism on Earth â except for humans.