Muskrat

Muskrat in open water near Athalmer, BC

The muskrat's name comes from the two scent glands found near its tail which gives off a strong "musky" odor. They emanate this scent when they need to communicate, mate or to ward off intruders in their territory.

Muskrats spend much of their time in the water and are well suited for their semi-aquatic life. They can swim under water for up to 15 minutes and can even chew under water. Their lips can close behind their cutting teeth which permits muskrats to chew on plant stems and roots underwater with their mouths closed. They can also close off their ears to keep the water out. Their hind feet are semi-webbed, although it is their long tails that are flattened vertically which gives them the main propulsion when swimming.

When they walk on land the tail drags on the ground, 

which makes their tracks easy to recognize.