Activity and Habitat Utilization of Beaver Colonies in South Carolina

Movements, primary use areas, activity periods, and habitat use were evaluated for beaver (Castor canadensis) from 2 adjacent colonies, a stream colony, and a lake colony in the Piedmont of South Carolina. Beaver were monitored from February 1983 through March 1984. Minimum total distance moved by individual beaver ranged from 0.26 to 6.83 km. Distance between extreme locations ranged from 0.08 to 1.86 km. Lake colony beaver movements exceeded those of stream colony beaver. Beaver were more active during fall and winter months. Areas frequented by beaver ranged from 10.95 ha to 14.67 ha. For each colony habitat, types were not used in proportion to availability and habitat use varied between colonies.