Historical reference: Do not rely on this information. It is very old. About this collection
Coypu (Myopotamus coypus), a large South American rodent, the sole species of the genus. These animals live in burrows near lakes and rivers, and, it is said, sometimes on the seashore. They are good swimmers, and feed on aquatic plants and occasionally on molluscs. The length, including the tail which "is scaly, is about 30 inches. The flesh is excellent eating, and the brownish-yellow fur is sold under the Spanish name of Nutria (otter).