"THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS"

Muskrat - 4 Photos

In a small pond dammed at one end by beavers, discovered a pair of muskrats swimming, eating and generally enjoying a day in sunshine albeit a little windy.

Assume the smaller muskrat to be the female. The larger muskrat eventually headed towards a small bank and inlet, which was overlooked by a small wooden pedestrian bridge. It was a great spot to achieve some close-ups and monitor the little fellow. 

On review, it appears this muskrat has had some rough encounters, whether that be with another muskrat or a narrow escape from a predator. Unfortunately, for muskrats, they are the favourite "go to" meal for coyotes, bobcats, herons, hawks, foxes, to name just a few in this area alone. 

Muskrats like to co-habit with beavers and therefore, have some security in beaver lodges. And no they are not freeloaders, they help out with lodge repairs such as patching holes with mud, etc.

On an "aside", while sitting among the reeds and meadow grasses, I heard some scurrying and every so often, a little vole would pop up and pop back down, usually accompanied by some squeaking. It's that time of year and "Spring is in the air"!. One of my rules while taking some time out is to ensure all openings in my camera bag are zipped shut. Love all of Nature's creatures big or small but I don't want to be bringing any surprise little friends home!

N.B. if you would like to see more photos of the muskrats, visit the link below. The gallery is also currently in "Featured" on the Home Page.

Wind in the Willows

PHOTO #1

PHOTO #2

PHOTO #3

PHOTO #4