Des Moines Relocated Two Beavers From Gray's Lake
Parks staff captured the pair after they damaged trees at the local park.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Wildlife
The Des Moines Parks Department relocated two beavers from Gray's Lake following reports of tree damage. The operation was completed by September 25, 2026, after staff members observed the animals in the park.
Why it matters
The relocation addressed property damage at the lake, where beavers had felled two trees. This action aims to protect the local landscape after park staff identified the activity during the summer.
Officials confirmed that two beavers were trapped and moved from Gray's Lake after felling two trees. This is the first recorded instance of beaver activity in the city in five years.
The players
Des Moines Parks Department
The municipal agency responsible for maintaining city green spaces and managing wildlife interactions within local parks.
The details
A contractor was hired to trap the beavers after park staff spotted the animals swimming in the early morning hours. To prevent further damage to the park's vegetation, crews have wrapped remaining cottonwood trees in protective chicken wire. Two cottonwood trees were left unwrapped to serve as markers for monitoring any ongoing wildlife impact in the area.
Timeline
* Summer 2026: Staff first noticed minor tree damage at Gray's Lake.
* September 17, 2026: The first beaver was captured.
* September 25, 2026: The second beaver was captured.
The Home Front
This relocation marks a notable return of beaver activity to Des Moines after a five-year hiatus. The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing urban park maintenance with the natural behavior of local wildlife.
If you live near Des Moines parklands, check your own property for any gnawed wood or tree debris that could indicate local wildlife activity. Property owners should contact the city's parks or natural resources office to report wildlife concerns rather than attempting to interact with the animals.
The takeaway
Wildlife can return to urban areas after years of absence, necessitating quick updates to local site management. If you observe damage to trees or property in your neighborhood, contact the city to determine if it is a result of local wildlife behavior.
Further reading
For more on how local flora and fauna are managed in public spaces, visit Wildlife.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Des Moines Register.
