Myocastor coypus, commonly known as the nutria or coypu, is a large semi-aquatic rodent native to South America. It belongs to the family Myocastoridae and is characterized by a robust body, round tail, and webbed hind feet.
The nutria has a distinctive appearance, with a brownish-gray fur that becomes reddish in older individuals. It typically measures around 2 to 3 feet in length, with a weight ranging from 15 to 35 pounds, making it one of the largest rodents in the Americas.
This species is primarily found in freshwater habitats such as rivers, marshes, and wetlands where it can utilize its webbed feet for efficient swimming. Nutrias are excellent diggers and build burrows in riverbanks or near water bodies.
Nutrias are herbivores, primarily feeding on aquatic plants, roots, and shoots. Their adaptive jaw structure allows them to gnaw through vegetation, including the destruction of crops. This behavior has caused concern in some regions where the nutria has been introduced as an invasive species, as their feeding habits can have negative ecological and economic impacts.
Nutrias are known for their rapid reproduction rate, with females producing several litters per year. Their strong adaptability, combined with their prolific breeding, has contributed to their successful colonization of many parts of the world outside their native range.
In summary, Myocastor coypus is a large semi-aquatic rodent that can be found in freshwater habitats in South America. It is characterized by its robust body, webbed hind feet, and distinctive brownish-gray fur. Nutrias are herbivores and are capable of destructive feeding on vegetation. Due to its ability to rapidly reproduce and adapt, the nutria
