Muskrat behavior and trapping guidelines released by LifeSciencesWorld

Muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus) are semi‑aquatic rodents native to North America, Europe and parts of Asia. They are generally non‑aggressive toward humans, defending territory only when threatened or protecting young, and they feed mainly on aquatic plants such as cattails and water lilies.

LifeSciencesWorld outlines several trapping options for muskrats, including live traps for humane capture, body‑gripping (Conibear) traps for quick kills, and foothold traps. The guide advises on proper trap placement, effective bait, safety precautions, and compliance with local regulations, aiming to reduce property damage while minimizing harm to non‑target species.