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United States · Massachusetts · Berkshire| Common Animals Fish Mushrooms Flora |
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Castor canadensis |
August: Construction continues, and beavers begin preparing for autumn.
May bite when defending territory. Generally not aggressive towards humans. In Siberia and the North, beaver meat was eaten during Lent. Castoreum was believed to be medicinal and used in folk remedies. Hides used for making hats and mittens.
Inhabits rivers, lakes, and swamps of northern regions. Builds dams and lodges, plays major ecological role. Mostly nocturnal.
Traps and snares on beaver trails Ambush near dams and lodges Use of crossbow or low-noise firearm
Best time for hunting is early morning or evening. Silence is crucial — beavers are skittish and vibration-sensitive. Hunting permitted in specific seasons — check local laws.
Meat should be field dressed quickly, especially in warm weather. Hide is valued for durability — used in leather industry. Castoreum is used in traditional medicine and perfumery. Meat is edible after thorough heat treatment. Tail is considered a delicacy by northern peoples.
Back: Braising, roasting
Legs: Boiling, aspic
Fat: Rendering and cooking use
Legs: Boiling, aspic
Fat: Rendering and cooking use
Braised Beaver with Vegetables (Braising)
Pre-soaking removes strong odor
Pre-soaking removes strong odor
1. Soak meat in vinegar water for 2–3 hours.
2. Brown with onion, carrot, and spices.
3. Braise with broth for 1.5–2 hours.
2. Brown with onion, carrot, and spices.
3. Braise with broth for 1.5–2 hours.
Beaver Aspic (Boiling and chilling)
Rich flavor, uses legs and tail
Rich flavor, uses legs and tail
1. Boil legs and tail for 4–5 hours with spices.
2. Separate meat and pour over with broth.
3. Chill until set.
2. Separate meat and pour over with broth.
3. Chill until set.