There are 1,228 recorded sightings of Beaver in Illinois, with 187 observations documented in the past 12 months. Local sightings are most frequently reported in March through June.
When to See Beaver in Illinois
Most often reported in March through June.
| Month | Recorded Sightings | Peak Month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 80 | No |
| February | 67 | No |
| March | 201 | Yes |
| April | 227 | Yes |
| May | 147 | Yes |
| June | 80 | Yes |
| July | 0 | No |
| August | 55 | No |
| September | 0 | No |
| October | 79 | No |
| November | 90 | No |
| December | 101 | No |
Compared With Other Regions
Explore how Beaver sightings in Illinois compare to other North American hubs:
The largest rodent in North America has glossy brown fur, webbed hind feet, orange incisors and a broad, flat, scaly tail. It builds dams and domed lodges that turn streams into ponds. Bark, twigs and aquatic plants are its food. It is native across Canada, the United States and northern Mexico, and has been introduced to Patagonia and Finland. Watch still water at dusk for a V-shaped wake, and listen for the sharp slap of a tail on the surface.
Other Wildlife to Look for in Illinois
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see a Beaver in Illinois?
Beaver is most often reported in Illinois in March through June, based on GBIF records. Reports partly reflect when more people are outdoors, so sightings in other months are possible.
Where can I see a Beaver in Illinois?
There are 1,228 documented Beaver records in Illinois. Parks, refuges and protected areas with suitable habitat are the best places to start; the charts above show when it's reported most.
How can I find Beaver sightings near me in Illinois?
Use the WildMap app on iOS to see recent reports within 100 km from the past 7 days for free (WildMap Pro: 200 km and 30 days), and turn on alerts for sightings near you in Illinois.