Patagonian Cavy
Dolichotis patagonum

CLASS

Mammalia

ORDER

Rodentia

FAMILY

Caviidae

Range

Central and southern Argentina

Habitat

Arid grasslands and brushlands with a great deal of open space (region called the pampas in Argentina)

Diet

Grasses and other vegetation

Facts

• Also known as "Patagonian mara" or "Patagonian hare"
• While most time is spent in pairs, large groups will form when grasses and herbs are plentiful.
• Patagonian cavies may walk or hop like hares or gallop like horses.
• Vocalize with grunts, grumbles, and screams.
• Unlike most mammals, cavies are monogomous.
• As many as 15 cavy pairs will raise their offspring in one communal dens (called creches). Females use scent to locate their young.

Conservation

Although it is widespread, its populations are declining due to loss of habitat, competition with large introduced herbivores and hunting, probably at a rate close to 30% over ten years.