Nutria (Myocastor coypus) on Feb 24, 2010
Submitter does not have a specimen
Description of specimen
In mid-July 2009 my wife and I were walking at night along the elevated walkway. We spotted a group of about 15 nutria along the side eating grasses and plants. They seemed to not be startled by humans.
I took pictures at the time. I've attached one such picture that I posted on my flickr account.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/cachew/4382224517/
More are available if they are helpful.
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!
Trevor Sheffels
Center for Lakes and Reservoirs
Portland State University
Trevor Sheffels
Feb. 24, 2010, 3:36 a.m.