One of the world's largest rodents was imported for fur farming in North America; today it's devastating wetlands and riverbanks across US

Nutria, large rodents introduced for fur farming, now infest forty US states and Canada. These prolific breeders destroy vital wetland vegetation and agricultural crops like rice. Their burrowing weakens levees and dams, posing risks to infrastructure and public safety. Eradication efforts involve trapping, detection dogs, and bounty programs to control populations. These invasive creatures have caused millions of dollars in damage across affected regions.

By TOI Science Desk