How did nutria come to North America?

Nutria, also known as coypu, were introduced to North America from South America in the early 20th century. Specifically, they were brought to Louisiana in 1930 for the fur trade. The nutria industry failed, however, and many of the animals escaped from fur farms or were released intentionally. Once released, nutria populations rapidly expanded and the species became established in coastal marshes from Louisiana to Maryland. Nutria are highly adaptable and have proven to be successful in a variety of wetland habitats throughout North America.