Beavers in Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego Island

Beavers may seem harmless and even cute, but in Tierra del Fuego their story is a clear example of how a poorly planned introduction can disrupt an entire ecosystem.

In this article, we explain how beavers arrived in Tierra del Fuego and the profound environmental impact they have had on our ecosystem.

The introduction of the beavers  in Ushuaiwith “good intentions”

In 1946, the Argentine government brought 20 pairs of beavers from Canada with the goal of promoting the fur industry in Tierra del Fuego.

The fur industry is dedicated to breeding, capturing, and processing animals for their pelts, traditionally used to make coats and other clothing items.

At that time, no one anticipated the environmental impact these animals would have in a region where there were no natural predators to control their population. Without the threat of bears or wolves, as in their original habitat, beavers found a perfect paradise to reproduce without restrictions.

Beavers: An ecosystem in crisis

The main problem is that Fuegian forests are not adapted to beaver activity. Unlike in Canada, where trees can regrow after being gnawed, the lenga and guindo trees in Ushuaia die completely when beavers fell them. This has caused the destruction of large areas of native forest and altered watercourses through the construction of their dams, affecting other species in the region.

Currently, it is estimated that there are more than 300,000 beavers on Tierra del Fuego Island, both on the Argentine and Chilean sides. Their environmental impact is so significant that they are now considered one of the worst invasive species in the world.

What is being done today regarding beavers?

For years, both our Chilean neighbors and Argentine authorities have tried to control the beaver population through eradication programs and studies on how to mitigate ecological damage. However, being such a well-adapted species, without natural predators, and with a high reproductive capacity, finding a solution remains a challenge.

Where to see beavers in Ushuaia?

Despite their environmental impact, seeing beavers in their habitat remains a fascinating experience. The Beaver-watching tour in Ushuaia takes you to explore their ecosystem and learn firsthand how they build their dams and lodges. It is also a unique opportunity to understand the balance between nature and introduced species.

Book an activity to see beavers in Ushuaia

Experience seeing beavers in their natural environment with Excursiones En Ushuaia. You will learn about their history, environmental impact, and enjoy an immersive experience in nature along with the best of our regional cuisine in a cozy cabin.