ASIATIC BEAVER
The Asiatic Beaver is one of the rarest and least known animals in China. There are less than a thousand of these aquatic mammals living along a river system between Xinjiang and Mongolia. The beaver’s survival is threatened in both countries and Mongolia may have less than 200 remaining. Human activities and population growth have had a major impact on their habitat. Though they are legally protected, and poaching, for their pelts or fragrance glands, is prohibited, their future is still uncertain. Little research has been conducted on this genuinely wonderful animal. CERS has been supporting and collaborating with scientists and government agencies in Xinjiang to advance study and protection of the Asiatic Beaver. The work has now extended into surveys and collaboration with Mongolia with the aim of expanding the conservation efforts into a trans-border international project.