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| The Muskrat is a large aquatic mouse, resembling a Beaver. They have dense glossy fur of dark brown on top, lighter on the sides, and fine, softer nearly white hair on the throat. Dark patches are often visible on the chin. The Muskrat has a nearly naked, scaly tail that is higher than it is wide, and tapers to a point at the end. This serves as a rudder. They weigh about one kilogram, and have partially webbed hind feet that are larger than the forefeet. They also have small eyes and ears. They are excellent swimmers and can remain submerged for great periods of time. Muskrats live near water, building their burrows along the shores of lakes and streams in undergrounds dens. These are reached through a burrow that begins underwater, leading up into the warm dry den. They also build in the shallow water of marshes, using grass and aquatic plants. They do not like strong currents or rocky areas. Muskrats base their diets on plants found in shallow water. They also enjoy clams, crayfish, fish, and frogs. The breeding period occurs in late winter through early September, with 1 to 5 litters per year, each yielding 1 to 11 young. Females often breed while they are still nursing. Muskrats are born naked at birth, and become furred about two weeks later, and can then swim and dive. They are weaned quickly and driven away by their mother. The Muskrat is preyed upon by many flesh-eaters, especially the Mink. |
(Family Muridae)
Ondatra zibethicus
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