North American beaver large, webbed hind feet. The unwebbed front paws are smaller, with claws. The eyes are covered by a nictitating membrane which allows the beaver to see under water. The nostrils and ears are sealed while submerged. A thick layer of fat under its skin insulates the beaver from its coldwater environment. The beaver's fur consists of long, coarse outer hairs and short, fine inner hairs (see Double coat). The fur has a range of colors, but usually is dark brown. Scent glands near the genitals secrete an oily substance known as castoreum, which the beaver uses to waterproof its fur.
Animal welfare and rights in Russia Animal welfare and rights in Russia Animal welfare and rights in Russia is about the treatment of and laws concerning non-human animals in Russia. Russia has highly limited animal welfare protections by international standards. Russia's Penal Code addresses animal cruelty under its chapter on crimes against human health and public morality. The Code prohibits causing injury or death to an animal with malicious or mercenary motives, or with sadistic methods, or in the presence of minors. Besides the anti-cruelty provisions of the Penal Code, there are no animal welfare laws addressing farm animals, companion animals, animals used in research, animals