Ondatra – Muskrat

A small, aquatic mammal native to North America and found widely across wetlands, ponds, lakes, and rivers. One of their most distinctive features is their long, flattened, scaly tail, which is not only a rudder during swimming but also a balancing tool when they stand upright.

Muskrats have a dense, waterproof fur that is typically brown, with a softer, lighter undercoat that provides insulation. This fur is highly valued in the fur trade, contributing to their widespread recognition. They have small, beady eyes, short legs, and strong claws that are well-adapted to their semi-aquatic lifestyle. Their webbed hind feet are particularly efficient for swimming.

One interesting aspect of muskrats is their ability to construct elaborate homes called “lodges” or “push-ups,” which they build using vegetation and mud. These lodges have underwater entrances, making them safe from predators and harsh weather conditions. Inside, the lodge is divided into compartments, including a nesting chamber that stays dry and warm.

Muskrats are primarily nocturnal and are most active during the night when they search for food. Their diet mainly consists of aquatic vegetation, such as cattails and water lilies, though they occasionally eat small fish, frogs, and crustaceans. This diet not only sustains them but also plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in their habitats by controlling the vegetation growth.

Socially, muskrats are interesting creatures. They typically live in family groups and show territorial behavior, especially during the breeding season. They communicate through a variety of sounds, including squeaks and chirps, and even use musk released from their glands to mark their territory, which is where their name comes from.