A Maple Ridge resident out for a walk along the dikes got some quick pics of a busy beaver paddling in the water.
Sandi Thiessen, who started a weekly walking group on the site of a local Facebook group called Ridge Meadows 55+ Social, was walking with several members of the group last week when they heard the beaver jump into the water.
They were along the stretch of dike that begins along 216 Street and ends at Neaves Road, said Thiessen.
“We noticed it surface we watched it swim about (to) get something to put in its lodge,” she explained.
Thiessen noted her group walk the dikes almost weekly and they have encountered blue herons, ducks, eagles, coyotes, and even a bear.
However, never a beaver – until now.
“We have never encountered a beaver before and thought at first it was a river otter till we saw the tail and the size of it,” she said.
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Ridge Meadows 55+ Social was started by local real estate agent Krista Marion to encourage those 55 years and older to get outside or try a new hobby. Events and outings are held every week or two weeks and range from getting coffee, to wine tasting, getting lunch, and other recreational activities. The Facebook group currently has more than 700 members.
Thiessen started the walking group when she found herself walking daily on her own because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The group has since become great friends, added Thiessen, with many regulars participating on the walks.
“It has been so good to meet great walking partners who are also needing nature walks to get them thru Covid,” she said.
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