Abstract
A young beaver was selected for observation and experimentation to evaluate bases of water-regulation behavior. Records were kept of the beaver’ behavior both in and out of an “experimental pond.” Rates and timing of activities were examined against variation in water levels, temperature, flow, time of day, and ambient as well as water-specific sounds. While the beaver failed to respond systematically to variations in water levels, he went to great lengths to avoid the flow of water. When water flow and the accompanying sounds were untied experimentally, the beaver avoided variation in the quality and quantity of sound in general and the sounds associated with flowing water specifically.
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This study was made possible by the Theodore Roosevelt Foundation and the Idaho State Department of Fish and Game.
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Hartman, A.M. Analysis of Conditions Leading to the Regulation of Water Flow by a Beaver. Psychol Rec 25, 427–431 (1975). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03394333
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03394333