COYPU, koi-pL' (native South American name), or NUTRIA. An aquatic rodent (liyopo Minus coypu), widely common in South America. Its name in Chile is 'coypu.' and on the Pampas but it is always called by Spanish-speak ing people of education nutria ('otter'), by which name its tiff is known in commerce. It is not an otter, however, but is nearly allied to the beaver, yet somewhat smaller, -and with a rat like tail. It is dull brown, with a grayish muzzle and bright-red incisors: the nostrils are very high, allowing it to breathe with only the tip of the nose above water; and the teats are high on the flanks. When the beaver became scarce the fur (nutria) of this animal was in great demand for making hats, etc., and the coypus were nearly exterminated, but with less demand and the protection of local laws they have again become numerous. It is thoroughly
aquatic, dwelling preferably in the permanent ponds (lagunas) of the La Plata Valley, and inhabiting bin•rows in the banks, where there are banks, or making a platform nest among the rushes. "Of an evening they are all out swim ming and playing in the water. conversing to gether in their strange tones, which sound like the moans and cries of wounded and suffering men; and among them the mother coypu is seen with her progeny, numbering eight or nine, with as many on her back as she can accommodate, while the others swim after her, crying for a ride." For further interesting facts, consult: Hudson, The aturalist on the La Plata (Lon don, 1875) ; Proceedings Zoological Society (Lon don, 1894) ; Simper. Animal Life (London and co'Y York, 1881). See Plate of BEAVER, ETC.