We just discovered that a guest has decided to make himself a resident in our pond, which is fed by a creek. Although he is kinda cute and humorous, his eating habits leave something to be desired, and he is totally unmindful of the master landscaping plan. So we would like to encourage him on his way.

So what method do you folks recommend for encouraging a beaver to vacate? A rifle, a trap???

I read on one naturalist site that if an environment is suitable enough for one beaver to occupy, eliminating him will just be temporary .... because another is bound to come along to take his place. They suggested just getting used to nim being there, and protect those trees that we really want to keep.

What are your insights?