Also known as: Muskrat
Muskrat Fact Sheet Muskrats are a small, aquatic rodent with short limbs and a long, nearly hairless tail. Muskrats have short, plush fur that is light to dark brown with a lighter chin and throat. Th e hind feet are partially webbed. Tracks: Frontβ 1" L, 1" W Raccoon Rearβ 2.5" L, 1" W Total Length 32-36 inches Weight 2-4 pounds Fun Facts: Similar to beavers, the lips on a muskrat close behind the incisors, which enables them to chew and feed underwater.
Habitat & Range
Muskrats are found throughout North Dakota, but are most common east of the Missouri River. Muskrats live in wetlands, ponds, lakes, streams and backwaters. They either build huts made of plant material or dig burrows into banks. Breeding Season April-August Gestation Period 25-30 days Litter Size 1-11 (average 6-7) - Muskrats are capable of producing more than one litter per year. Social Aspects Muskrats are generally believed to form mated pairs, but some research indicates that males are polygamous. Either way, muskrats are territorial and are aggressive to one another. Several muskrats are known to huddle together in a single hut during cold months.
Life History
Food: Muskrats are primarily herbivorous and eat aquatic vegetation such as cattails, reeds and bulrushes.
Status, Trends & Threats
Furbearer with a limited open season and stable population.
Hunting Season
Hunting (rimfire .22 or smaller): Nov 24 β May 10. Trapping: Oct 25 β May 10
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Muskrat in North Dakota
Muskrat may be hunted and trapped in North Dakota. Hunting with rimfire .22 or smaller, air guns, and archery: Nov 24 β May 10. Trapping: Oct 25 β May 10. Muskrat huts may be opened for trap insertion but must be restored. Spring restrictions (Mar 16 β May 10) on trap placement near muskrat houses.
When is Muskrat hunting season in North Dakota?
Hunting (rimfire .22 or smaller): Nov 24 β May 10. Trapping: Oct 25 β May 10
What is the bag limit for Muskrat in North Dakota?
No limit (unlimited take)
What's another name for Muskrat?
Muskrat is also known as Muskrat in North Dakota.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Hunting (rimfire .22 or smaller): Nov 24 β May 10. Trapping: Oct 25 β May 10 | Link |
| North Dakota | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Muskrat may be hunted and trapped in North Dakota. Hunting with rimfire .22 or smaller, air guns, and archery: Nov 24 β | Link |
