Muskrat vs North American Beaver
Quick answer
In a hypothetical one-on-one, the North American Beaver would most likely come out on top decisively, thanks to its greater size and power and raw strength. In reality, animals like these rarely meet, and both would usually avoid a fight.
This is a hypothetical, educational comparison based on typical size, strength, and natural weaponry. In the wild these animals rarely meet, and most encounters end without a fight.
Mammal
Least Concern
Mammal
Least ConcernMuskrat vs North American Beaver compared
| Attribute | Muskrat | North American Beaver |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 1.2 kg | 25 kg |
| Length | 35 cm | 1 m |
| Top speed | 5 km/h | 55 km/h |
| Strength | 15/100 | 50/100 |
| Deadliness | 5/100 | 10/100 |
| Intelligence | 38/100 | 62/100 |
| Lifespan | 4 yr | 20 yr |
Muskrat vs North American Beaver: common questions
Who would win in a fight, a Muskrat or a North American Beaver?
In a hypothetical one-on-one, the North American Beaver would most likely come out on top decisively, thanks to its greater size and power and raw strength. In reality, animals like these rarely meet, and both would usually avoid a fight.
Which is bigger, the Muskrat or the North American Beaver?
The North American Beaver is heavier, weighing around 25 kg compared with the other's 1.2 kg.
Which is faster, the Muskrat or the North American Beaver?
The North American Beaver is faster, reaching about 55 km/h versus 5 km/h.
Which lives longer, the Muskrat or the North American Beaver?
The North American Beaver typically lives longer, up to around 20 years compared with 4 years.
Sources & references
Conservation status follows the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; size, weight, speed, and lifespan figures are drawn from Animal Diversity Web (University of Michigan Museum of Zoology) and Nowak, Walker’s Mammals of the World (Johns Hopkins University Press), cross-checked against each species’ own guide. Compare full profiles for habitat, diet, and behaviour:
- Muskrat — full guide
IUCN Red List (Least Concern, Ondatra zibethicus)
- North American Beaver — full guide
IUCN Red List (Least Concern, Castor canadensis)
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Animal Diversity Web — University of Michigan Museum of Zoology
Life-history, morphology, and measurement data for Muskrat and North American Beaver.
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Nowak, R. M. (1999). Walker’s Mammals of the World (6th ed.). Johns Hopkins University Press.
Standard reference for body size, weight, and life-span ranges.
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Global Animal Guide editorial standards
How we research, source, and review wildlife comparisons.
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