Nutria have become very numerous in Louisiana. They tear up landscaping, undermine canal banks, destroy levees, and have even attacked pets! They are an invasive species and can be nearly impossible to remove. Some nutria carry diseases such as giardia, also known as âbeaver feverâ, that is very dangerous to dogs and humans. We specialize in removing the nutria from your property. Call trapper J to get rid of your nutria problemat (318)439-0202
Nutrias are a non-native rodent that were imported into the United States from South America in the early 1900s as a way to control noxious plant species. They live in aquatic habitats along the banks of marshes, swamps, and impoundments, and beaver ponds in all areas of Louisiana. They are primarily herbaceous and feed on the roots and rhizomes of aquatic marsh plants. Cord grasses, cattails, three square, and pickerel weed are some favorites. Nutrias may also feed on agricultural crops such as rice, corn, and cabbage.
They are larger than a muskrat but smaller than a beaver. They have small eyes and ears, well developed whiskers, and large dark orange protruding incisors. The tail is long, rounded, and almost hair-less. The fore legs are small and the front feet have five un-webbed toes, one of which is claw-less and reduced in size. The hind legs are much larger and four of the five clawed toes on each hind foot are webbed. The fur is coarse and ragged and may vary in color from yellowish brown to dark brown. The chin is often white and the belly is pale gray.
