Based on 1,527 research-grade iNaturalist observations in Illinois, American Beaver is most often recorded in April; in Illinois it behaves like a seasonal. It ranks #11 among mammals recorded in the state in our data.
Castor canadensis
American Beaver in Illinois by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in Illinois in April

Eastern Gray Squirrel

Eastern Cottontail

White-tailed Deer

Common Raccoon

Eastern Fox Squirrel
Eastern Chipmunk

Muskrat

Virginia Opossum
Places to look in Illinois
Cahokia
Botanical GardenMorton Arboretum
Shawnee National Forest
Chicago Botanic Garden
Ladd Arboretum
State ParkStarved Rock State Park
FAQ
When does American Beaver appear in Illinois?
Mainly March–June, with the most records in April.
How common is American Beaver in Illinois?
It ranks #11 by number of iNaturalist observations among mammals in Illinois (1,527 records in our sample).