Tree beaver (SciiFii)

The tree beaver (Arborocastor phocapoda) is a species of beaver that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the wetlands, forests, and open woodlands across Eurasia and North America to help boost biodiversity. Compared with most aquatic beavers, the tree beaver is even better adapted to life in water. The tree beaver's swimming stroke involves the whole body. Its tail and hind feet are fused together into one large paddle, which, when powered by its backbone, produces a powerful up-and-down swimming stroke similarly to several species of pinnipeds and whales. Its ears, eyes and nose are placed high up on its head and remain above water when the rest of the animal is submerged. Surprisingly, the paddle does not impair the tree beaver's movement on land and is used as a grasping limb, enabling it to climb partway up trees, increasing its potential supply of food and building materials. The tree beaver's family lodge, complete with an underwater entrance, is built of sticks plastered with mud, and is well camouflaged against potential predators. The conservation status of the tree beaver is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the tree beaver's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.