What is a common indicator of beaver presence in an area?

A common indicator of beaver presence in an area is the visible signs of tree gnawing. Beavers are known for their behavior of cutting down trees to access wood and leaves for food, as well as to gather material for building their dams and lodges. The distinctive gnaw marks left on tree trunks are typically found at a height of about 2-3 feet from the ground, which corresponds to the reach of a beaver when standing on its hind legs. This height ensures that the beaver can efficiently work on the tree without needing to climb higher.

Other signs of beaver activity could include large nests or dams, but the specific characteristic of gnawed tree trunks is a direct indication of feeding behavior and habitat manipulation typical of beavers, making it a clear and reliable sign of their presence in the area.