Beavers have co-evolved with all native riparian vegetation in the northern hemisphere. Although they have preferences, they will give almost any plant a taste if they are hungry enough. However, beavers generally avoid spirea, elderberry, and most conifer species.

Beavers will not stay in areas that do not have enough food to sustain them. Planting willow stakes is the easiest and most effective way to increase the probability of beavers moving into and staying in an area. Willows are resilient! They have evolved to regenerate quickly, don’t mind being cut, and are a favorite of beavers. Red osier dogwood and other similar species can be planted by stake as well but are not as hardy as willow.