Muskrats are in the same family as voles and lemmings- they are not true rats. They are a lot like beavers when it comes to their lifestyle and apperance, although muskrats do not have a big flat tail. Muskrats are ominvores- they primarily feed on aquatic plant roots, crayfish, small fish, etc. They are heavily trapped in my state for their fur, which is very soft and plush.