Firefighters say a beaver-damaged tree brought down by gusty winds was likely the cause of a woods fire in Pinebluff Fire and Rescue’s district Sunday afternoon.
Pinebluff Fire and Rescue and the N.C. Forest Service in Moore County responded to the fire, which broke out on rural farmland. According to fire officials, the tree had “been the victim of a beaver’s attention.”
Strong winds caused the compromised tree to fall, bringing down power lines and igniting the fire.
Despite the dry, windy conditions that increased the risk of rapid spread, responders contained the fire to less than two acres.
Fire officials did not specify the exact location of the incident, and there were no reported injuries or damage to structures as a result of the fire.
Beavers are known for dramatically altering their surroundings. According to the World Wide Fund for Nature, beavers modify landscapes by damming waterways, burrowing, and felling trees, making them second only to humans in their ability to change the environment.
Abegail Murphy | Assistant Editor
Article by Sandhills Sentinel Assistant Editor Abegail Murphy. Abegail has been writing for Sandhills Sentinel since 2021. Photo via Pinebluff Fire Department.
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