Common Rodents:
* Beavers: These iconic rodents are semi-aquatic, building dams and lodges in rivers and streams. They primarily eat bark and wood.
* Muskrats: These semi-aquatic rodents build lodges in marshes and along shorelines. They feed on aquatic plants and small animals.
* Water voles: These small rodents live near water, often in burrows along riverbanks. They feed on grasses and other plants.
* Rice rats: These rodents are commonly found near marshes, swamps, and rice fields. They feed on seeds, insects, and other small animals.
* House mice: While not strictly water-dwelling, house mice often live near water sources in urban areas. They are opportunistic omnivores, feeding on a variety of food scraps.
* Norway rats: Similar to house mice, Norway rats are often found near water sources in urban areas. They are omnivores, feeding on a variety of food sources.
Less Common Rodents:
* New World porcupines: These semi-aquatic rodents are found near rivers and streams in South America. They feed on a variety of plant material.
* Coypu (Nutria): This large rodent is semi-aquatic, inhabiting marshes, canals, and other water bodies. They primarily feed on aquatic plants.
* Swamp rats: These rodents are adapted to living in marshes and swamps. They feed on a variety of plant material and small animals.
* Water rats: This term can refer to various species of rodents that inhabit water-rich environments. Their diets and lifestyles vary depending on the specific species.
Note: Some rodent species may be considered pests, and their presence near water can be problematic. It's important to take steps to prevent rodents from accessing your home and other buildings, such as sealing up any cracks or holes and storing food properly.
Remember, this is not an exhaustive list, and many other rodent species might be found near water. The specific species present in a particular location will depend on the local climate, vegetation, and other environmental factors.