There are 90 recorded sightings of Beaver in South Dakota, with 12 observations documented in the past 12 months. Local sightings are most frequently reported in April through July.
When to See Beaver in South Dakota
Most often reported in April through July.
| Month | Recorded Sightings | Peak Month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 0 | No |
| February | 2 | No |
| March | 10 | No |
| April | 16 | Yes |
| May | 14 | Yes |
| June | 7 | Yes |
| July | 13 | Yes |
| August | 6 | No |
| September | 0 | No |
| October | 8 | No |
| November | 2 | No |
| December | 4 | No |
Compared With Other Regions
Explore how Beaver sightings in South Dakota 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 South Dakota
Track Beaver in South Dakota
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see a Beaver in South Dakota?
Beaver is most often reported in South Dakota in April through July, 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 South Dakota?
There are 90 documented Beaver records in South Dakota. 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 South Dakota?
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 South Dakota.