Muskrat

Ondatra zibethicus

Habitat

In wetlands with dense emergent vegetation, with a preference for slow or still water, muskrats build small lodges out of aquatic plants, under root balls, in streams and pond embankments, and under docks.

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Diet

This omnivore eats cattails, reeds, rushes, and pond-weeds; but also some mussels, insects, and crayfish.

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Distinctive Characteristics

A small aquatic rodent, one to two feet long, with glossy, brown waterproof fur and a skinny rat-like tail that makes a V shape when it swims.

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Nocturnal/Diurnal

Active all day throughout the year, the muskrat maintains water access routes through ice in winter, and can stay under water for up to 15 minutes.

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Reproduction & Family Structure

Four to eight young are born sometime between March and October.

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Living with Wildlife

How to Prevent or Resolve Conflicts with Muskrats

Most damage from muskrats are from burrowing and digging that can weaken dikes and dams. Learn how to make your area less attractive to muskrats. 

Learn more

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