Coypu - Myocastor coypus
Lac de Bassillion - France.
We first saw this little fella during a jog around the lake so the next day we went armed with the cameras. They were easily spooked so it took a lot of patience and creeping in the undergrowth to get close enough for a decent shot. Later that week it became clear that there were three Coypu's in the lake so due to my soft nature where animals are concerned they soon became known as Bernard, Bernadette and Bernie (aka the Bernard's.) :)
The Coypu is a large semi aquatic rodent that is originally native to South America but was introduced to Europe in the last century as a result of the fur trade. Some escaped from fur farms and others were released into the wild When the fur trade declined. It is widely distributed across France and is present in many lakes and waterways feeding on aquatic vegetation, roots, stems, water lilies and lake side plants.
Unfortunately for the Coypu it is responsible for much damage to rivers banks, vegetation and consequently native species, and in most countries including France it is considered a pest, with many local authorities taking steps to eradicate it.
Many thanks for the comments and faves, they are all very much appreciated.
Coypu - Myocastor coypus
Lac de Bassillion - France.
We first saw this little fella during a jog around the lake so the next day we went armed with the cameras. They were easily spooked so it took a lot of patience and creeping in the undergrowth to get close enough for a decent shot. Later that week it became clear that there were three Coypu's in the lake so due to my soft nature where animals are concerned they soon became known as Bernard, Bernadette and Bernie (aka the Bernard's.) :)
The Coypu is a large semi aquatic rodent that is originally native to South America but was introduced to Europe in the last century as a result of the fur trade. Some escaped from fur farms and others were released into the wild When the fur trade declined. It is widely distributed across France and is present in many lakes and waterways feeding on aquatic vegetation, roots, stems, water lilies and lake side plants.
Unfortunately for the Coypu it is responsible for much damage to rivers banks, vegetation and consequently native species, and in most countries including France it is considered a pest, with many local authorities taking steps to eradicate it.
Many thanks for the comments and faves, they are all very much appreciated.