CHAPTER II 



THE LIFE OF A BEAVER COLONY 



IN the foregoing pages, the work done by the 

 beaver has been described with more or less 

 thoroughness. It has perhaps proved dull reading, 

 but seemed necessary in order that the habits of 

 the animal should be more fully understood, and 

 his tasks more completely appreciated. We shall 

 now see something of the life of these busy 

 creatures, and the best way will be to follow them 

 through several consecutive years, seeing how they 

 live, and plan, and work together. 



We will imagine that it is spring, the dreary, 

 monotonous winter has passed. The sun is warm- 

 ing the earth and awakening the plant world to 

 life and activity, the rich mosses of the northern 

 woods are becoming more green and beautiful, and 

 the flowers are unfolding their petals to brighten 

 the country and tempt the drowsy insects from 

 their long sleep. Everywhere the creamy white 

 flowers of the bunchberry are strewn like snow over 

 the woodland ground. Everything is awake and 

 happy. The beaver who have no young are leaving 

 their dark lodges, and seeking summer quarters, 

 for before them lies a season of ease and happiness 

 and good living. 



