The tail often is a key identifying feature, and can help you narrow your ID. When you see a mammal swimming in a lake, or running along a creek bank, there are some easy ways to narrow your identification. It covers 140 species of semi-aquatic mammals, representing 22 families, found around the globe. If you are interested in taking a deep dive (if you’ll pardon the pun), I highly recommend Glynnis A. First, check out my previous field guide to commonly misidentified mammals to learn how to avoid common pitfalls in wildlife watching.Ī good field guide is indispensable and can help with range, habitat, size and key identifying features of each species. Many people find wildlife identification overwhelming. It was incorrectly identified in the Nature Conservancy archives as a beaver! © Tila Zimmerman/TNC Photo Contest 2019 What’s that Mammal? Hopefully, this guide will help you identify North America’s common freshwater mammals. But many people find identifying them confusing, especially as they look like a swimming blob of fur.Ĭountless times, I have heard excited hikers exclaiming “Beaver!” only to find a diminutive muskrat paddling around a pond.Ĭonservation efforts have greatly benefited species like beavers and river otters, so you have a great chance of seeing these in many parts of the United States and Canada. In North America, these are among the most enjoyable wild animals to observe. Semi-aquatic mammals – those species adapted to freshwater habitats – are found around the globe. But what is it? A beaver? An otter? Or…something else? You’re expecting a jumping fish when you see a furry creature paddling along. You’re walking along a riverside path when you hear a splash in the water.

Eager the surprising