Which habitat modification can discourage muskrat activity?

Which habitat modification can discourage muskrat activity?

• A. Creating deeper water areas
• B. Planting dense shrubs
• C. Increasing aquatic plant diversity
• D. Lining shores with coarse stone

Answer: (D)

Lining shores with coarse stone can effectively discourage muskrat activity because muskrats typically prefer softer, muddy substrates for burrowing and creating dens. By adding coarse stone along the shores, it creates an unfavorable environment for muskrats to dig into and build their homes. The rocky surface makes it challenging for them to establish burrows, leading to a natural deterrent against their presence in that area. In contrast, options like creating deeper water areas, planting dense shrubs, or increasing aquatic plant diversity may actually provide favorable conditions for muskrats. Deeper water can help them avoid predators, while dense shrubs offer cover and foraging opportunities. Increased diversity of aquatic plants might also enhance their food sources, making these options less effective in deterring these animals. Therefore, modifying the habitat with coarse stone is the most practical approach to manage and discourage muskrat activity.

Lining shores with coarse stone can effectively discourage muskrat activity because muskrats typically prefer softer, muddy substrates for burrowing and creating dens. By adding coarse stone along the shores, it creates an unfavorable environment for muskrats to dig into and build their homes. The rocky surface makes it challenging for them to establish burrows, leading to a natural deterrent against their presence in that area.

In contrast, options like creating deeper water areas, planting dense shrubs, or increasing aquatic plant diversity may actually provide favorable conditions for muskrats. Deeper water can help them avoid predators, while dense shrubs offer cover and foraging opportunities. Increased diversity of aquatic plants might also enhance their food sources, making these options less effective in deterring these animals. Therefore, modifying the habitat with coarse stone is the most practical approach to manage and discourage muskrat activity.