Nutria (Myocastor coypus) on Jan 30, 2013
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Description of specimen
There are currently two juvenile nutria living in and around the wetland. I often see them swimming in the water as well as grazing on the lawn along the sidewalks on either side of the road.
It is important to realize that nutria are rodents and potential reservoirs for a variety of diseases that can be transferred to other species, including humans in some cases. As is the case with many species of wildlife, nutria can become aggressive if they are disturbed; it is important to leave them alone and not feed them.
The nutria page on the Center for Lakes and Reservoirs website at http://www.clr.pdx.edu/projects/ans/nutria.php contains more information on nutria impacts if you are interested. My contact information can also be found on this site if you have questions or would like further information.
Thanks again for your efforts!
Lisa DeBruyckere
Jan. 30, 2013, 11:36 a.m.