The muskrat is a species originally from America and belongs to the subfamily of voles. In the early 20th century, it was introduced to Europe for its fur and has since steadily spread (Schaefer 2018). According to Regulation (EU) No. 1143/2014, the muskrat has been classified as an invasive “established” species in Germany since 2017. Ondatra zibethicus can reach a head-body length of up to 40 cm and a tail length of up to 29 cm. The tail is flattened laterally. Adult muskrats weigh between 800 g and 1600 g. Muskrats prefer habitats with abundant vegetation near water bodies (Schaefer 2018). Populations of this species can have negative impacts on ecosystems, as their burrows can cause damage to the shoreline, for example (Skyrienė and Paulauskas 2013).

Diet: Muskrats primarily feed on plant matter, including reeds, sedges, and waterweed (Müller 1966). They occasionally consume animal food, such as freshwater mussels (Prell 1924).

Threat Status: According to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, Ondatra zibethicus is classified as “Least Concern”.