GAP Analysis Predicted Distribution Map

Mountain Beaver (Aplodontia rufa)

Species Code: APRU

Legend: = Core Habitat = Marginal Habitat Breeding Range Map The green area shows the predicted habitats for breeding only. The habitats were identified using 1991 satellite imagery, other datasets and experts throughout the state, as part of the Washington Gap Analysis Project. Click to enlarge distribution map Map with historical museum records Other maps & Information: NatureMapping observations throughout the year

Requires deep soil for burrowing, dense thickets of vegetation, and very moist situations, often near streams or springs. Occurs in forest and brush and more abundant in hardwood forest than coniferous. Does well in cut-over and second growth forest and is a significant pest in gardens and forest plantations where it eats conifer seedlings. Found from sea-level to treeline, but not above. More abundant at lower elevations and far more common west of the Cascade crest than east.

Core zones were all zones west of the Cascades below Mountain Hemlock. In all zones, low density development, fresh water/wetlands, hardwood forest, and mixed forest were good habitats. It prefers habitats with lush vegetation.

Translated from the Washington Gap Analysis Mammal Volume by Dave Lester
Webpage designed by Dave Lester