1. A large rodent native to South America, resembling a beaver, with brown fur and a long hairless tail, often found in wetlands and waterways.
Usage: Also spelled 'nutria' in some regions.; Considered an invasive species in many parts of Europe and Asia.

Examples

• The coypu has become a pest in European wetlands, damaging crops and riverbanks.
• Coypus are excellent swimmers and can hold their breath for several minutes.
• The coypu's fur was once valued in the fur trade.
• Wildlife managers have struggled to control the coypu population in the marshes.
• A coypu can weigh up to 20 pounds and live for several years in the wild.