Unexpected guest in Kaunas center: entertained on the riverbank
A beaver was spotted and filmed on the banks of the Neman River near the Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum in Kaunas, Lithuania.
Recently, a beaver, the largest rodent in Lithuania, was observed by the banks of the Neman River close to the Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum. The museum shared a video of this unexpected visitor, seen 'entertaining' itself along the icy riverbank as it chewed on branches before diving back into the water. This sighting has sparked interest among locals and visitors alike, showcasing the wildlife thrive in urban settings even during winter.
The Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum elaborated on the diet of these beavers, explaining they primarily eat plant-based food, such as the bark of deciduous trees and aquatic plants. Notably, the beaver's tail plays a crucial role not only in its movement and thermal regulation but also serves as a communication tool. The museum noted that beavers will slap their tails on the water surface to alert family members of potential dangers, illustrating their social behavior even during the colder months.
This sighting of a beaver along the riverbank in winter is not an anomaly, according to the museum. It highlights that this species remains active to maintain its food reserves, care for its habitat, and support its family through the chilly season. Observing such wildlife in the heart of the city provides a unique intersection of urban life and nature, positively engaging the local community with their surrounding environment during the winter months.