Poster 24: Coypu (Myocastor coypus) in Flanders: will they become a pest?

The coypu originates from South America and was imported to Europe in the mid twenties for its fur. In the thirties they were also imported into North America as furbearer, but also to destroy water plants and later even sold as 'weed-cutters'. When fur was no longer a profitable product, they were released and could establish vital populations in both Europe and North America. They are regarded everywhere as pest animals that damage crops, dikes and marsh vegetation, and people try to control them. Until now total eradication was only attempted and successful in the UK. In North America, they are still used for fur and meat. At the moment numbers in Belgium are estimated at a few hundred individuals. This is not much compared to other European countries like France and Italy, where it is probably too late to eradicate them. The colder climate in Belgium, especially in years when winter temperatures are low, keeps the population from quickly becoming a pest. But due to the absence of cold winters in the last few years, coypu are increasing. What should be done?