bogvole

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Muskrat at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge during spring bird migration Royalty Free Stock Photo

Muskrat eating grass alongside MNWR wildlife drive during spring bird migration Royalty Free Stock Photo

Muskrat on MNWR wetlands eating fresh spring grass during spring bird migration

The muskrat or musquash (Ondatra zibethicus) or bog vole is a medium-sized semiaquatic rodent native to North America. It is easily recognized by its non-descript ears and eyes. They primarily inhabit wetlands, areas in or near saline and freshwater wetlands, rivers, lakes, or ponds. Resident of Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge New York State area is composed of swamps, pools and channels and is a stopping point for migratory birds. It is the largest contiguous wetland complex in the northeastern United States.