Arresting Beaver Work

Most Friday afternoons I go for a walk with my elderly friend (whom I've named Debbie on this blog) along the St. Jacob's Mill Race Trail. Today, while on our weekly stroll, we saw more wildlife than usual both on the water and off the water. Mallard duck pairs, half a dozen muskrats, gray and black squirrels, chickadees, and several Mr. & Mrs. Cardinal couples went about their business in our presence. 

We didn't see the beavers, but we certainly saw evidence of their work. When we slowed down to look more closely at a gnawed-up tree edging the mill race, Debbie muttered something about the shame in what the critters have been doing to the woods surrounding the path. "The beavers should be arrested for their property damage!" she declared.

I chuckled a little at her notion and we continued on our way. I think I know why she laments the destruction to the trees in that area, but I'm also fascinated by the way those creatures are only doing what God gave them the instinct to do - creating pools of water by damming up the stream so they can build their homes and protect their young more easily. 

I don't need to arrest the beavers; they've already arrested me - at least, my attention. I only wish I could see them at their work.