COYPU (Myocastor coypu), a large South American aquatic rodent. Its large size, aquatic habits, partially webbed hind-toes, and the smooth, broad, orange-coloured incisors, are sufficient to distinguish this rodent from the other members of the family Capromyidae. Coypu are abundant in the fresh waters of South America. Should the water dry up, they seek fresh homes. Al though subsisting largely on aquatic plants, these rodents fre quently come ashore to feed, especially in the evening. Several young are produced at a birth. The fur is of some commercial value and is known as nutria; its colour is reddish-brown. (See