Diet

These animals are mostly herbivore (sometimes they eat small quantities of molluscs and other invertebrates). Muskrats feed mostly on cattail and other aquatic vegetation, but also eat small animals. The diet changes with the seasons, i.e., with the state of vegetation in and around water bodies. They eat, squatting on the so-called feeding platforms – elevated, flat pads of mud and vegetation. Whenever possible, they feed in the same places, so in these places a lot of residue accumulates on the platforms – a layer by layer. The width of the platforms can be considerable: a meter or even more in diameter. Food that is previously found and gnawed is transported to the place of eating. The feeding platforms are also used as a dry place to clean the fur.

Habitat

Muskrats inhabit areas abundant in water like wetlands, ponds, lakes and marshes. For shelter, muskrats will either dig tunnels or construct lodges, depending on the immediate habitat. In areas with steep banks or dams, muskrats will dig tunnels that begin underwater and lead up above the water level, where the chamber can remain dry. In other areas without steep walls or dams, muskrats build dome-shaped lodges out of nearby vegetation and mud.

Important and interesting facts

The fur s very thick and waterproof. They can spend 12-17 minutes under water.

In English, muskrats are named for the musky smell and rat-like appearance.

Muskrats are excellent swimmers, thanks to their webbed back feet, laterally flattened tails, and the ability to hold their breath underwater for 15-20 minutes. They can swim backwards and forwards.

Muskrats are native to North America. The have been introduced in the Old World by people.

Information sources: latvijasdaba.lv, Wikipedia, www.havahart.com