Reproduction Nutria are highly prolific and breed all year, with reproductive peaks occurring in late winter, early summer and mid-autumn. Reproduction may be influenced by prevailing weather conditions. Nutria reach sexual maturity at four to six months. Sexually mature male nutria can breed throughout the year. Gestation for a nutria ranges from 128 to 130 days, and they are ready to breed within 48 hours after giving birth.
Litters average four to five young.
However, nutria can have up to 13 young per litter and may have 3 litters per year. In Maryland, they average four young per litter. Young are born fully furred and active, weighing 8 oz. at birth. They can swim and eat vegetation shortly thereafter, with weaning occurring 7 to 8 weeks after birth. Within 5 days after birth, nutria can survive away from the mother.