Nutria are large rodents introduced to the U.S. from South America that create habitat problems in some areas. They have a negative impact on muskrats, waterfowl, and other native wildlife. Nutria weigh 5 to 25 pounds and measure up to 24 inches with a long, scaly, rounded tail that stretches another 12 to 17 inches. Males are larger than females.
Nutria are found in scattered locations including Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, Virginia, Washington, and Oregon where they occupy marshes, lakes, ponds, and streams. Dominant males share a den with 2 or 3 females and the young. Den entrances are 12 to 24 inches below the water and as much as 24 inches in diameter. The inner chamber is above the waterline and lined with grasses. The home range usually includes about 1,000 feet of habitat along a dike or shoreline. Nutria eat most any green plant and grains. Alligators, hawks, owls, and eagles prey on nutria. Breeding occurs throughout the year with 1 to 11 young per litter. Sexual maturity is at 5 to 6 months.
