Rodent that can live in -35 C cold caught on camera in Chornobyl
RBC-Ukraine collage
A nutria, most likely escaped from some farm, has found its way into the lens of a camera within the Chornobyl Reserve, where it now seems to be relishing its newfound freedom, according to the reserve's Facebook post.
About nutrias
Nutrias, resembling large rats, are also known as swamp beavers or coypus.
This rodent is an alien species for Europe, originating from South America. In Ukraine, they are mainly found in places of artificial maintenance and breeding.
These animals quickly adapt to the wild, unfazed by snow and frost, as nutrias are said to withstand temperatures down to -35 Celsius in their homeland.
Their body length reaches up to 60 cm, with tails up to 45 cm, and they weigh between 5-10 kg, occasionally reaching 15 kg. Males are usually larger than females.
Nutrias lead a semi-nomadic lifestyle, mostly staying in areas with ample food and natural shelters. They rest and raise their offspring in open nests found in piles and dense thickets of bent stems of reeds and bulrushes. Additionally, nutrias dig burrows on steep riverbanks, which can range from simple tunnels to complex systems of passages.
Nutria hiding spots are often located along paths that the animals create near their refuge. These creatures form groups ranging from 2 to 13 individuals, consisting of adult females, their offspring, and a male. Young males often live separately.
These rodents have excellent hearing. Nutrias are skilled swimmers and divers, capable of staying underwater for up to 10 minutes. On hot days, they are less active and usually seek shelter in the shade.
Nutria in caught on camera in Chornobyl (photo: facebook.com/zapovidnyk2018)
