First Record of a Hermaphroditic Muskrat

Abstract

This paper documents the first reported record of a hermaphroditic muskrat, Ondatra zibethicus L. A common semi-aquatic furbearer, muskrats are distributed across much of North America. During routine dissection of muskrat carcasses (n = 114) harvested by trappers in southern Ohio during 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014, and 2021, a subadult/adult specimen was observed to have what appeared to be fully developed ovaries and testes. A written description and photographic documentation of this hermaphroditic muskrat is provided.