These semiaquatic furbearers are found in just about every state of the union including small areas of Florida and California. Seldom found far from water, they prefer the still or slow-moving water of marshes, ponds and streams.


Disease
Muskrats may carry Tularemia - A bacterial disease associated with various animal species especially beavers, rabbits, and rodents

Damage to homes and property
Muskrats can cause damage to property when they burrow into ditch banks as they make their den and by eating vegetation such as lawn grass, or garden and ornamental plants. Hole digging activities undermine earthen dams and dikes. Damages also occur to irrigation canals and farm ponds. Muskrat feeding activities often destroy the roots of the vegetation, and it may take 15-20 years for the habitat to return to its original state. This industrious little rodent can cause a lot of damage in a little time. Although the feeding habits of muskrats may result in some damage to agricultural or ornamental crops growing near water, the principal cause for concern is the potential damage to earthen water- retaining structures, resulting from muskrat burrowing activities. Extensive tunneling into earthen dams may result in water leaks or even in the loss of stored water. When muskrat numbers get too high in late summer and fall, the population becomes stressed.


Need for Professional Help

It is a good idea to get professional help as a wildlife pro will be able to asses your paricular situation and recommend the best and least expensive method of solving your problem.


Call us if you need help with a Muskrat Problem
703-232-0857