By Colleen Gundlach

Beavers, the semiaquatic rodents that often change the structure of waterways with their dams, are seldom known to dam up a roadway. In Norfolk, though, one of these little animals was enough to block traffic in both directions at the Route 44 retaining wall project when it took a stand at about the midpoint of “The Chute” on June 8. The eastbound traffic signal light went green. Then the westbound light changed. Still the beaver held its ground. A state trooper was called to the scene to clear the way, after which westbound traffic backed out of The Chute to allow eastbound cars to proceed. According to a State Police public information officer, “The beaver was displaying signs of severe illness, and ultimately was put down.” Only in Norfolk.