nutria

/ˈnuːtriə/
noun
  1. A large, semiaquatic rodent native to South America, often considered an invasive species in other parts of the world; also called coypu.
    • Nutria have damaged the wetlands by eating the roots of plants.
    • The wildlife agency is working to control the nutria population in the river delta.
    • A nutria swam across the pond with a mouthful of reeds.
  2. The fur of the nutria, used in clothing and accessories.
    • The vintage hat was made from nutria and felt.
    • Her coat was lined with soft nutria fur.
    • Some fashion brands avoid using nutria due to environmental concerns.
Synonyms