Eurasian beaver

Description:

The traces of beavers feeding are everywhere on shores of these wetlands. Beavers, known for their dam-building activities, also cause notable damage to trees through their gnawing behavior. This behavior serves multiple purposes, including feeding on the bark, using the wood for constructing dams and lodges, and, in some cases, sharpening their teeth. While beaver activity can lead to these forms of tree damage, resulting in economic loss or ecological changes, it's also important to note that their actions create wetlands, which are beneficial for other species and can increase biodiversity. The impact of beavers on trees is a complex interplay of ecological dynamics, often requiring management strategies in areas where beaver populations intersect with human interests or conservation goals.

Habitat:

Seen in wetlands of Hortobágy National Park - these wetlands are part of the network of shallow lakes, marshes, and sodic lakes (alkaline lakes) that dot the landscape of the park, offering a rare glimpse into the diverse aquatic ecosystems of the Eurasian steppe. Formed by the backwaters of the Tisza River, these wetlands are crucial for the survival of several species of migratory and resident birds. The area serves as a vital stopover for tens of thousands of cranes, geese, and other migratory birds traveling along the East Atlantic and the Black Sea-Mediterranean flyways each year, making it a spectacular site for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons. The wetlands also support a range of other wildlife, including amphibians, fish, and aquatic invertebrates, which contribute to the ecological balance and richness of the area.

Notes:

Hortobágy National Park, the first national park in Hungary, is an emblem of the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Sprawling across the eastern part of Hungary, it is the largest protected area in the country and part of the Great Hungarian Plain. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famed for its vast grasslands, traditional pastoral culture, and diverse wildlife, including unique bird species. Hortobágy serves as a crucial habitat for numerous bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Its landscape, characterized by open pastures, wetlands, and the traditional lifestyle of herdsmen, reflects centuries of human and natural history intertwined.