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 den (called a creche). 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.