Beaver (Mongolian) Status: Endangered
The Mongolian Beaver is endangered because it is hunted for its pelts. The Mongolian beaver is a subspecies of the Eurasian beaver found only in the Wulungu River of Mongolia. It is estimated that only 400 survive in its range. Adults reach from 31.5 to 43.3 inches in length and weigh between 28.6 and 70.4 lbs, making them the world's largest rodents. Females are slightly larger than males. Their bodies are stocky with flattened hairless tails known as "scoops." Their coats are brown to yellowish brown in color with thick, fuzzy hair. Beavers are notable among mammal species for their ability to alter their habitat to make it more suitable for their needs. This is usually accomplished by the building of dams or canals. The Eurasian beaver prefers to build lodges of piled logs using sand and clay, and they prefer to dig burrows in riverbanks for nesting.
Placement of this geocache has been approved by Rob Rossmanith, Park Biologist. Please remember, all wheels off the paved road when parking. Do not block any gates or trailheads and follow the posted speed limits.