A keystone species is a species whose presence and role within an ecosystem have a significant effect on other species and the overall ecosystem structure. Beavers are a BIG deal!
Our site manager, Andy Szymczak, knows a lot about Osage Park's wetland ecosystem and our animal residents. Andy has seen many beavers and knows exactly where to look for them!
Beaver dens, or lodges, are amazing structures that provide safety and comfort for our hardworking beavers! Made up of sticks and mud, these lodges can house around 3-8 family members during the winter months.
As the second-largest rodent in the world, the beaver has some big, webbed feet to fill! Fun fact: The beaver has orange teeth! Thanks to the iron-rich teeth they are estimated to gnaw through 500 pounds of wood per year!
Along with Andy, Gabe helps out with our educational programming! Gabe's knowledge of the wetland helps students of all ages understand the importance of keeping Osage Park clean for animals and humans alike!
Ever wonder what it's like to be a beaver for a day? Our team loves to help kids dive in to the everyday life of our #1 resident: beavers. With swim googles to represent their transparent 3rd eyelid and flippers as their large, webbed feet, students of all ages love becoming a beaver!
You may see beavers swimming around the wetland at Osage Park and Lake Bentonville. Did you know that they can reach speeds of up to 5 mph and can hold their breath for 15 minutes?
The Peel Compton Foundation has many programs for young learners to get excited about Osage Park! From nature classes to summer camps, students will be able to learn about plants, recycling, and wetland ecosystems!
Osage Park is made possible through our wonderful community of visitors, supporters, and staff. From learning about the interesting ecosystem to working to preserve the wetland, we are happy to share Osage Park with all!
