Beaver Scout Tail Levels: A Journey of Growth
Beaver Scouts wear a tail on the back of their hat to symbolize their age, experience, and progression through the program. These tail levels reflect growth, exploration, and leadership, rather than how long a Scout has been in the Colony.
Mid-year transition: Around January or February, White Tail Beaver Scouts receive the Northern Lights symbol on their tail, marking the start of their Northern Lights Quest toward the North Star Award.
Only one tail is worn at a time—when a new tail is awarded, the old one is retired.
Tail Levels & Their Meaning
Brown Tail (Age 5, Senior Kindergarten) – Discovery & Growing
BROWN represents the beaver’s fur and the earth, reminding Scouts of their responsibility to care for nature.
A time for discovery, when young Beavers expand their world beyond family and begin exploring new adventures.
Blue Tail (Age 6, Grade 1) – Building & Exploring
BLUE symbolizes the sky and water, representing the endless possibilities opening up for Beaver Scouts.
A year of expanding abilities, exploring new challenges, and developing teamwork & independence.
White Tail (Age 7, Grade 2) – Leadership & Big Goals
White Tail Beaver Scouts are Busy Beavers, guiding younger Scouts and preparing for Cub Scouts.
WHITE represents the moon and stars, symbolizing guidance, distant goals, and the path forward.
White Tails link Eager Beavers to Tenderpads, preparing for the next step in Scouting.
Northern Lights Tail (Age 7, Grade 2, Mid-Year) – The Final Journey
Mid-year, White Tail Beavers add the Northern Lights symbol to their tail, showing they are on their Northern Lights Quest toward the North Star Award.
This final tail level signals that a Beaver Scout is nearing Cub Scouts and making their last preparations to Swim-Up.
Final Thoughts: Every Tail Marks an Important Step
The Beaver Scout Tail System gives Scouts a visible sign of their progress, leadership, and readiness for new adventures.
Wear your tail with pride—it represents everything you’ve learned and accomplished in your journey at the Pond!