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Michael Todd | all galleries >> Galleries >> Mammals > Nutria
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5/12/2002 Michael Todd

Nutria

Memphis, TN

The Earth Complex at Ensley in Memphis (aka "The Pits"), is the only place I've ever seen this large rodent in TN, although they have been found elsewhere. They are native to South America, and were introduced into Louisiana in the 1930's as a fur-bearer, and have since expanded their range to include much of the southeast and elsewhere. They resemble a cross between a Beaver and Muskrat, and although not visible here, have bright orange incisors.

Sony Mavica FD-97 ,Kowa 822

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Guest 18-Apr-2006 15:06
That's a nutria all right, white nose hairs and all. I recently moved to Louisiana from Memphis and have become familiar with the cute-but-destructive critters. Here's hoping they don't invade Memphis. A hard freeze can kill them off, yet they're in Oregon! Go figure.

I enjoy watching nutria in the local park and feeding them bread, but I hate that they're literally eating the ground out from under me. They don't belong here.

Laurel