The Fur-Bearers' September Crossword

7. Process of young animals moving away from their parents.
9. Important prey species for Canada Lynx.
12. Wetland engineer often mistaken for a beaver.
14. Astronomical event marking the beginning of fall.
17. These urban canids howl to communicate with each other.
20. Harvest these early and enjoy or donate to prevent negative encounters.
21. Limit this type of disruption to wildlife by using timers or motion sensors.
24. This hungry state drives bears to fill up before winter.

1. Clever critters who adapt well to urban environments.
2. Gold-coloured plumes mark this late-season pollinating plant.
3. Checking for these around the home becomes critical when animals are foraging.
4. Many fur-bearers use this skill to find food in fall.
5. Colouring that helps wildlife blend into the environment.
6. Fur products are on the outs but still used in this industry.
8. Pack-living canids that regulate prey populations.
9. Their nut-caching behaviour helps grow new forests.
10. Hollow tree shelter that provides habitat.
11. How fur-bearers help move seeds in autumn.
12. Fungi that have a relationship with plant roots.
13. Beavers are this type of species, ecologically.
15. Seasonal coat change for many fur-bearing animals.
16. Fallen leaves that break down return these to the soil.
18. Overhead cover that displays and drops colourful leaves from trees in fall.
19. A deep sleep that skunks and raccoons use in short winter days.
22. The scientific name for Canada’s bears; also a constellation.
23. Beaver structure that holds back water.