Upon one look, many may be terrified at muskrat. This is not a surprising reaction because they are really synonymous to rats. Most of the Muskrat facts available out there would definitely agree that this specie is from the genus Ondatra family. This also belongs to the tribe of Ondatrini. This is usually originated in North America. This rodent is just medium-sized. It is a semi-aquatic specie that may also be seen in Asia, South America and even Europe.
Muskrats are mammals that are related to lemmings and voles. As mentioned, they are commonly seen in North America. However, some of them are now in South America, Europe and Asia. They were brought there already. This migration transpired in the 20th century. Basically, muskrats have the ability to inhabit marshes, wetlands and even ponds. The same is also true with rivers and lakes. There are parts of the world which they may be derived from.
As many surely knows, they are perceived as pests. They are given such reputation because they tend to damage river dams. They also eat the crops which is too dangerous for farmers. This might have been the reason why people hunt muskrats whenever they can. Aside from the fact that they can get rid of a pest this way, they also look for such because their meat and fur can be useful enough. Even if these factors have been reported, there are muskrats in the wild which can be stable and large enough. With this, they are not yet considered endangered species at all.
Basic Information
Muskrats may reach 18 to 25 inches, in length alone. This includes their tail though. As for their weight, they may be around 2 to 3 pounds. This is how light they are. These Muskrats have always been covered with thick brown fur. This is made up of two layers. Its outer part has always been waterproof. As for its front feet though, it is equipped with sharp and long claws. Its hind feet have been webbed ever since. Muskrats also have their broad head. Their ears are really small. As a matter of fact, they can be mistaken for animal dives.
The name was derived from musk-rats. The mentioned is given to them because they somehow resemble a rat. They can also produce this smelly substance which is usually in their anal gland. This is a kind of substance which is utilized for borders to be market. This is a way for them to name their territory.
Aside from the aforementioned, Muskrats have always been well-adapted to their semi-aquatic life. They can survive this way. This goes to show that they have the ability to be both in the water and in the ground whenever they want to. They can also swim at 3 miles per hour. They do this by having their paddle like feet in them. Their tails can also contribute to the process. As for their diving, they may reach almost 15 to 20 minutes. They can succeed in here without having to return to the surface for breathing.