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1. How can I prevent or minimize muskrat damage to my property?

Muskrats can cause damage to property when they burrow into the ditch banks as they make their den and by eating vegetation such as lawn grass or garden and ornamental plants. A short (2- to 3-foot) chicken wire fence that is partially buried in the ground can be effective in keeping muskrats out of your yard or garden. Muskrats cannot be trapped without a trapping permit from the Virginia Department of Fish and Wildlife Office.

2. How can I reach your 3-1-1 Customer Call Center?

If you are calling from the City of Hampton, simply dial 3-1-1 on your touch tone or rotary dial phone. From outside the city of Hampton, please dial (757) 727-8311. The call center is available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week.

3. What are muskrats and why are they a problem in Hampton?

Muskrats are fur-bearing animals, usually 18 to 24 inches in length, and can weigh between 1 and 4 pounds. They have a dark tan to reddish-brown to dark brown to black fur color on their sides and back. The belly is generally light gray to silver to tan. They live in any place where food and water are available year-round and they are primarily vegetarians.

Muskrats cause damage to ditch banks with their burrowing and making of their den.

4. What is the telephone number for the Virginia Department of Fish and Wildlife?

Their main office for our area is in Williamsburg. They can be reached at (757) 253-4160.