Beavers destroy several trees near Mississauga marsh

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Published April 5, 2022 at 5:07 pm

Beavers destroy trees near Mississauga marsh
The City of Mississauga is taking steps to protect both trees and beavers after the animals destroyed a number of trees near Osprey Marsh. (Photo: Unsplash)

Mississauga is developing a beaver management strategy for the entire city after a family of the semi-aquatic animals destroyed a number of trees at a local marsh.

Ward 10 City councillor Sue McFadden told residents via her April online newsletter that damage has been done to numerous trees along the trail that circles Osprey Marsh, situated just to the northeast of Ninth Line and Britannia Rd. W.

“Anyone who has walked the trail that circles Osprey Marsh will have noticed the damage to several trees by the family of beavers that call the marsh their home,” wrote McFadden, who adds she has met with City of Mississauga staff in the Forestry, Storm Water Management and Animal Services departments to find a solution that will save the trees without harming the beavers.

Wire mesh has been set up around numerous trees at Osprey Marsh in order to protect them from hungry beavers. (Photo: Ward 10 Councillor Sue McFadden newsletter)

“A few of the largest trees have been protected with mesh wire cages,” continued McFadden. “However, several other trees have been lost and the damage is affecting the overall tree canopy and natural landscape around the pond.”

McFadden added that City staff is now creating a beaver management strategy for the entire city as a result.

“This policy work takes time and involves several stakeholders, including conservation authorities and provincial ministries. In the interim, we are still working on short-term options to protect trees and wildlife at Osprey Marsh,” she said.

Beavers are among the largest living rodents in the world. They have thick fur, webbed feet and flattened, scale-covered tails.

With powerful jaws and strong teeth, they fell trees in order to build homes and dams, often changing their environment in ways few other animals can.

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