The Muskrat

The Muskrat...A predator's friend...For all the wrong reasons !
This cute 2-3 pound mammal is to a predator what Ham on Rye is to us.  The Muskrat is not destructive. It is not dangerous. It is out traveling the river in the day time for sustenance. You will see them often as they swim along the bank of the river, whipping their tail in an undulating manor for propulsion. The Muskrat is somewhat alert and will go below the surface if it sees you.
Their appearance and behavior is similar to the beaver, but it is a fraction of the size. Muskrats tunnel under the bank of the river to nest and seek shelter, or build mounds of grass in ponds like a small beaver lodge. They eat roots, tubers and grasses. They are less harmless than a back yard squirrel. He just travels past you minding his own business. You will see them coming, they rarely surprise you.
Flat out...they are cuter than a cartoon character.
The only problem is they get bad P.R. With a name like "Muskrat" and a tail to match it is never going to get the positive coverage or love of a child's cuddly "Pound Puppy"; "Pound Muskrat". I don't think so.  Muskrats are cute, well behaved, and like that quiet girl in the back of your 9th grade History class...nice to look at!

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