Author(s): Thomas Glass, University of Alaska Fairbanks (First Author, Presenting Author) Ken Tape, University of Alaska Fairbanks James Speed, Norwegian University of Science and Technology Benjamin Jones, University of Alaska Fairbanks Sebastian Zavoico, University of Alaska Fairbanks
Beavers are colonizing the Arctic, transforming tundra streams into sprawling wetlands. Here, we evaluate the conditions that prompt establishment of new beaver ponds, and investigate the role that climate has played in facilitating this range expansion. We then predict how much beaver range will continue to expand in Arctic Alaska in the coming century. We find that climate plays an important role in facilitating this range expansion, and that beavers may colonize all of Arctic Alaska within a few decades. The profound changes introduced by beavers fundamentally change the character of Arctic streams and riparian areas.
