"Beavers"

          I am so grateful to be writing about beavers. I’ve come across two beavers in my lifetime. The first beaver I saw was in Toronto by Queen’s Quay. It was quite an experience, as the beaver was doing its self-care. Self-preservation is always important, but to see it performed through such an animal as a beaver was spectacular. It is clear that beavers watch after and care for themselves. Nevertheless, the extraordinary element comes from the fact that I saw a beaver.

 

          You don’t see this every day. Coupled with the self-care element, it was a vivid experience, a change from squirrels and birds.

 

          The next beaver I saw was almost a year later, in the Rideau Canal in Ottawa. I was taking a walk - it was fall - and the colours everywhere were exquisite. This beaver was resting! The canal was practically empty; there were small water currents, lots of rocks, branches and leaves from the trees. I immediately took out my phone and recorded the beaver, relaxing in its solace. You don’t see this every day, I reminded myself. I was so thankful to be able to bear witness to this natural encounter. The beauty of it also came out strongly when I crossed paths with the same beaver, I think a couple of days after. It was still in the canal.

 

          I think this beaver was looking for a lodge. Dow’s Lake was not far, and I reckon the beaver was navigating, finding its way as the piercing cold of winter was approaching. We were only in October on the edge of November. Still, passing this beaver marked me.

 

          Part of my drive to reflect on these experiences comes from my Nature alliance. I am ecstatic to follow non-human animals as they live in spaces, urban and otherwise. Being passionate around animals almost always perks me up, which is why beavers - especially those I’ve come across - have a special place in my heart.