Mississippi Aquarium is home to three North American Beavers. Elvis, B.B. and King, are names Mississippi Aquarium visitors are very familiar with. Not only are they Mississippi music legends, but they are also the names of the three North American Beavers that call the Mississippi Aquarium home. North American Beavers are the largest rodent species in the United States. They are most recognized for their long, flat, black tail that is used to help them balance and swim faster. These semi-aquatic herbivores live in ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams throughout the U.S.

Did you know?

A beavers tail has many functions! A beavers tail makes them incredible swimmers. It assists in temperature regulation, and helps them communicate with each other by slapping their tail on the water.

Biodiversity Warriors!

Beavers play an essential role in maintaining biodiversity within their environment. This makes them a keystone species. Many threatened and endangered animals rely on beaver created habitats to survive.

Where to find them at MSAQ.

Our North American Beaver habitat is located at the front of Mississippi Aquarium to the right hand side as soon as you enter our beautiful campus.

Mississippi Aquarium's animal enrichment program provides physically and mentally stimulating toys, activities, and environments for all of our animals. Enrichment allows our animals to demonstrate species-specific behavior found in their natural environments.

These items allow our animals to exercise control of their surroundings and enhance their well-being. Just like proper nutrition and veterinary care, animal enrichment is essential to animal welfare.