For the second time in two weeks I spotted a muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) at my local marshland park this past Monday and I was able to get some shots at even closer range that the last time. (At my closest, I was well within ten feet (three meters) of the little muskrat). I was on a boardwalk above the level of the water and I hung over the edge in an effort to get some shots at close to eye level.
The muskrat was a really small one and paid very little attention to me. It concentrated in pulling some of the vegetation out of the plants at water’s edge and them chewing on them while in the water. Once again, I was amazed at the dexterity of the front paws, which functioned as hands to get the food into the muskrat’s mouth.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved
Mike Powell 
Those muskrats have been kind to you. You got a great shot of those front paws. It must have been a lot of fun to watch him use them.
[…] For the second time in two weeks I spotted a muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) at my local marshland park this past Monday and I was able to get some shots at even closer range that the last time. (At … […]
It’s just adorable, and I can’t believe the great closeups you captured! His little paws holding whatever it is he’s nibbling – so cute! ~SueBee
Great captures!
Amazing that the animals in that area are so willing to put up with humans in their midst.
I love watching wild mammals, great series!!
Thanks. It would be a thrill to watch some large mammals in the wild, but small ones can be fun too.