I noticed matted trails in the grass leading up the bank at our Baboon Beach. I placed the camera at the spot and was surprised to see one or more nutria going up and down the bank and swimming in the river.
Nutria are native to South America, but were brought to North America in the 19th and early 20th centuries to be farmed for their fur. This didn't turn out to be profitable, and many nutria escaped or were released into the wild. They are destructive to river banks and marsh areas. In Louisiana, nutria have been known to chew through tires and house siding. Nutria are usually about 7 to 15 pounds, but have weighed up to 37 pounds. They have recently been a menu item in Russia as part of the localvore movement and as a "foodie" craze. I think we will gladly pass on eating these rat-like creatures!
1 comment:
That's an awesome video of the bobcat! The way it jumps seemingly in slow motion and then speeds off.
Cool nutria too, up close and personal!
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