Feature Ecosystems

Beavers are engineering a new Alaskan tundra

With more dam builders, the area is becoming more hospitable to wildlife

beaver swimming

ECOSYSTEM ENGINEERS  To some people, beavers are pests. But as they move into Arctic tundra, the animals may help other species.

Design Pics Inc/Alamy Stock Photo

By Sid Perkins

- More than 2 years ago

In a broad swath of northwestern Alaska, small groups of recent immigrants are hard at work. Like many residents of this remote area, they’re living off the land.