The beaver is taken from the coat of arms of the City of Albany. Albany was originally called Beverwyck, or "Beaver Town," because the city was the exchange point of the inland fur trade. This symbol dates back to the 17th century. The beaver grasps a pastoral staff, or crosier, to represent the rank of bishop.
Thank you!
Thank you. The bishop of Albany is probably the only one anywhere who shepherds a flock of beavers.