A “remarkably rotund” beaver is Chicago’s latest viral animal sensation, and a local group is asking the public to help name the cuddly critter.
It all started this past weekend with a social media post from Urban Rivers, a local urban wildlife conservation nonprofit.
The group shared a video from its wildlife cameras on Reddit, capturing an adorably chunky female beaver waddling along the banks of the Chicago River on the South Side.
The post quickly went viral, with users chiming in to marvel at the beaver’s cuteness.
According to Urban Rivers, locals have frequently spotted the creature in recent weeks around Bridgeport, McKinley Park, and Pilsen. The nonprofit speculates she may be pregnant due to her noticeably round appearance.
The conservation group has reportedly been tracking the beaver for months. She seems to have a full family, including a mate and several kits, and may even have extended relatives in the area.
In their post, Urban Rivers asked Chicagoans to help name the beaver—and the comments did not disappoint. Hilarious suggestions include “Lori Heavyfoot,” “Large Marge,” “Dam Ryan,” and “Sufjan Beavens.”
Got the perfect name? Urban Rivers is accepting submissions now—submit yours here.
If you’re hoping to spot some beavers yourself, there are plenty of great viewing locations around Chicago.
Beavers are most active at dawn and dusk, according to The Wildlife Trusts, and are easiest to spot in the warmer months.
In Chicago, they’re commonly seen along naturalized riverbanks, including at the Wild Mile Eco Park in River North.
Visit Urban Rivers’ site for more info on beavers in Chicago and urban wildlife conservation efforts.