Muskrat
Ondatra zibethicus
Appearance
Range & habitat
reciprocal relationships
The young develop rapidly and are independent of their parents at six weeks. Breeding continues during the summer and the last litters are born in August. Muskrats also have wonderful building abilities. Muskrats will build lodges in ponds with several tunnels and one chamber where muskrats huddle for winter warmth.
Despite heavy trapping and draining of wetland areas, muskrats are a common animal in Canada. To help steward these populations, and many others, some organizations have been working to protect wetland ecosystems. Wetlands are necessary for protecting water quality and preventing floods.