Once upon a time the eel river was so full of beavers they were like mile markers in the water. That was pretty much over when Hudson Bay trappers came down from Oregon and  used the rivers like highways for their pillaging around the states.

Since those dark days the eel river has been pining to get its beavers back, And its long wait may be ending.

Rodents of Unusual Size: Beavers Are Back in Humboldt County

In recent years a few folks who pay attention to the wild critters have been whispering of sighting beavers in the Eel River of Humboldt County and even dams in a few tributaries. In 2015 we even posted about a local wildlife tracker finding beaver footprints. But, much like those other mythical Rodents of Unusual Size (ROUS) from “The Princess Bride,” the existence of these industrious creatures here has been doubted ever since they apparently went extinct in the region due to over-trapping and habitat loss during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

There is nothing I like better than a  nice story about how folks are appreciative of getting their beavers back.

However, as naturalists and river lovers shared recent sightings more and more frequently, local folks are learning that the beavers are back in Humboldt County. A popular local wildlife photographer, Ann Constantino, last week spotted beavers in Southern Humboldt and took a series of captivating images. (See more on Flickr)

Those who love the waterways around here are hoping these beavers make a splashy comeback as they play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by building dams that create wetlands, which in turn support a diverse range of plant and animal species.

We are happy you’re happy! You have a golden moment here, use it to fill the halls and land owners with education and tools for when they are feeling less happy.

Your beavers are going to need it.