Nutria (Myocastor coypus) on Dec 2, 2008
Submitter does not have a specimen
Description of specimen
Brown Large Rat looking animal the size of a cat that matches the pictures of a Nutria was browsing in the grass on the area of the Nike running trail indicated by the marker.
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.
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.
Trevor Sheffels
Center for Lakes and Reservoirs
Portland State University
Trevor Sheffels
Dec. 2, 2008, 7:32 a.m.