Nutria or coypu, are often confused with the muskrat, however nutrias are larger and have round tails. Nutrias are easily identified by a white patch of hair around their mouths as well as by their bright orange teeth. Like other semi-aquatic animals, nutrias are often brown, and their fur was once highly sought after. The nose and mouth of the nutria can be closed off while swimming underwater to prevent liquid intake.
Nutrias are not native to many parts of the world and the invasive animal can cause a lot of damage to vegetation and wetlands. The nutria have devastated acres of wetlands and have also destroyed eggs and nests of endangered birds.
The most common disease associated with nutria causes “nutria rash” by strongyloides myopotami. The rash is the nematode entering the skin and being attacked by the immune system. Nutria can also carry leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis and other intestinal parasites.
After Hours:
Monday – Friday from 5:00pm – 9pm for emergency calls.
Weekend Hours:
7am – 9pm for emergency and animal pick up calls.