A Land Capability Classification System for Beaver (Castor canadensis Kuhl)

Abstract

Beaver colony site density was sampled on 136 lakes (about 1830 shoreline km) and 45 stream sections (145 stream km) in the northern interior of British Columbia. Beaver habitat factors were quantified and then related to beaver colony site density by multiple regression analysis. On the basis of separate analysis for lakes and streams, a land capability classification system was developed for beaver. The regression equations are also useful as models of beaver-habitat relationships and can be used for beaver inventory by prediction of beaver colony site density. Conservation of existing aspen (Populus tremuloides) stands, common throughout the bea- ver\u27s range, is considered the most powerful management tool for maintaining or enhancing present beaver land capabilit