Muskrat Ondatra zibethicus

Identification
This medium sized rodent has brown fur and a laterally flattened tail. It builds lodges of vegetation.

Location
Common statewide

Size
1.5 to 4 pounds

Diet
It feeds on aquatic plants roots and small animals.

Habitat
It occurs in wetlands and ponds across Ohio.

Activity Period
Year round

Behavior
It is primarily nocturnal and swims well. It constructs feeding platforms and burrows. It is active year round.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs from spring through summer.

Population
The population is stable statewide.

History
It has long been widespread in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It may cause minor damage to banks and dikes.

Facts
It is often mistaken for a small beaver.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Aquatic plants roots small animals | Wetlands marshes ponds streams | Statewide