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Coypu

Myocastor coypus

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45.1335, 10.0261

Field Notes

Description:

The coypu is a large, herbivorous, semiaquatic rodent and the only member of the family Myocastoridae. The coypu somewhat resembles a very large rat, or a beaver with a small tail. Adults are typically 5–9 kg (11–20 lb) in weight, and 40–60 cm (16–24 in) in body length, with a 30–45 cm (12–18 in) tail. They have a coarse, darkish brown outer fur with a soft under-fur. Two distinguishing marks are the presence of a white patch on the muzzle, and webbed hind feet. They can also be identified by their bright orange-yellow incisor teeth

Habitat:

Originally native to subtropical and temperate South America, it has since been introduced to North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, primarily by fur ranchers.

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PublishedSeptember 24, 2011

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