California eradicated these 20-pound rodents decades ago; DNA suggests someone deliberately brought them back

California believed nutria were eradicated, but they reappeared in the Central Valley. A new genetic study indicates these rodents were reintroduced by humans. Nutria damage wetlands and weaken vital flood control structures. Their feeding and burrowing habits cause significant ecological and agricultural harm. This discovery highlights the critical need for prevention alongside removal efforts.

By TOI World Desk