Definition & Meaning of "coypu"

What is a "coypu"?

The coypu, also known as the nutria, is a large, semi-aquatic rodent that is native to South America. They have a stocky body, webbed feet, and a long, cylindrical tail. Coypus have a dense, waterproof fur that can vary in color from brown to almost black. They are herbivorous animals, primarily feeding on aquatic plants, grasses, and other vegetation. Coypus are excellent swimmers and are well-adapted to their semi-aquatic lifestyle, with eyes, ears, and nostrils positioned high on their heads, allowing them to stay submerged while keeping an eye out for predators. They are also known for their ability to construct burrows and lodges along riverbanks or lake shores. Coypus have been introduced to other parts of the world for fur farming and have established populations in many countries, where they can sometimes have negative impacts on local ecosystems due to their burrowing and feeding habits. Despite this, they are also appreciated for their fur and have been domesticated in some regions for this purpose.