Bellevue still has many critters that interact in the urban environment and come into contact with its residents. Bordered by both Lake Sammamish and Lake Washington, Bellevue is host to many beavers making homes along its shores.
Please refer to the professionals at Critter Control for advice or help. We handle the trapping, assessments, reinforcements, and clean-ups for many wildlife issues. You could say we are the one-stop shop in pest control.
Beavers in Bellevue, WA
Beavers usually need ponds in order to survive and thrive, as the bodies of water provide safety and a source of food for the oversized rodent. This is why beavers dam rivers—in order to stop the flow of water. When beavers build dams, the result is a varied ecosystem that provides ideal conditions for waterfowl, insects, and beavers. Beavers are also found in large lakes and rivers.
River Otters in Washington
River otters are native throughout Washington state and are active in Lake Washington. River otters can tolerate various climates and environments, making homes in both warm and cold locations as well as at differing elevations. Otter dens typically have underwater entrances and tunnels leading to nests.
Damage from Beavers and Otters in Bellevue
Because of the proximity to the two lakes, aquatic wildlife is a bigger threat to residents than in other areas of Greater Seattle. We have dealt with some animals that damage houses, as well as houseboats and boathouses!
Major damage is caused when otters take up residence in ponds or fisheries, as these locations provide the animal with constant access to food. Their feeding may create an imbalance in pond ecosystems or cause fisheries owners significant financial losses. Otters are dangerous and may bite and claw at humans if threatened or cornered. River otters carry diseases that are transmissible to dogs and cats.
Otters would jump onto docks or people’s boats, defecating and leaving behind food scraps, or they would attack their pets.
Beavers are always found near water sources, as water is pivotal to their survival. Beavers can start building dams along waterways, sometimes near residential and commercial locations, causing water to overflow into areas. Bellevue properties near bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and ponds, are at the highest risk of beaver damage. Homeowners shouldn’t be concerned about beavers getting into their homes.