If you look at the historical context, the fur trade, and the beaver in particular, was responsible for the early exploration and settlement of Illinois. Back then, they were being harvested primarily for top hats. The under-fur was perfect for making into felt, which was made into top hats. |
The whole state turns out to be a wonderful beaver habitat. The beaver population is higher than it has been in 200 years. |
They're real common. In downtown Chicago, Jackson Park, they were cutting down trees. |
Those are the types of animals we recommend be removed. We don't see all coyotes as evil. There are all sorts in the Chicago area that don't cause problems, but when we see one like that, removal is probably in everyone's best interest. |