Not what you'd want to see emerging from the depths.
Residents of Dublin have been advised to be on the lookout for a 'large invasive rodent species' that have been possibly sighted near the Royal Canal in Ashtown, Dublin.
Waterways Ireland says the species are highly damaging to River and local wildlife.
The rodent is known as the Coypu, and apparently looks like this:
- Large semi-aquatic rodent up to 1 metre in head to tail length.
- Features same in juveniles.
- It can weigh 5-9kg.
- It has webbed hind feet.
- Dark fur often with lighter ends and has a white muzzle.
- Has long cylindrical tail (not fur tail like otter) and small slightly protruding ears.
- Distinctive features are large bright orange-yellow incisor (front) teeth usually visible.
- Coypu are generally found near permanent water.
It's also known to carry a number of diseases that can be harmful to humans and domestic animals, and it also causes extensive harm to river banks and flood defences.
If spotted people have also been strictly urged not to trap, harm, or engage with these rodents.
