What does a musk rat look like? - briefly
The musk rat is a medium‑sized rodent measuring roughly 10–15 cm in body length, covered in dense dark brown to black fur, with a pointed snout, prominent whiskers, and a short, hairless, pinkish tail. Its small, rounded ears are largely hidden by the fur, giving the animal a sleek, compact appearance.
What does a musk rat look like? - in detail
The musk rat is a medium‑sized rodent, typically measuring 20–30 cm from head to the base of the tail, with a tail length of 10–15 cm. The body is robust, covered by dense, coarse fur that ranges from brownish‑gray on the dorsal side to a lighter, almost cream hue ventrally. Individual hairs often have a dark tip, giving the coat a subtle speckled appearance.
Key visual features include:
- Head: Broad, with a blunt snout; eyes are small and set forward, providing a limited field of vision. Ears are short, rounded, and concealed by fur.
- Whiskers: Long, stiff vibrissae extend from the snout, aiding tactile navigation in low‑light environments.
- Limbs: Front feet possess five digits, each equipped with sharp, curved claws for digging. Hind feet are slightly longer, with well‑developed pads that enhance grip on uneven terrain.
- Tail: Semi‑naked, tapering, and covered with sparse hairs; the tip is often darker than the base.
- Scent glands: Prominent musk glands are located near the anal region, producing a strong odor used for territorial marking.
Sexual dimorphism is minimal; males and females share similar size and coloration, though males may exhibit slightly larger scent glands. The overall silhouette is compact and low‑profile, optimized for burrowing and navigating dense underbrush.