MARA
Dolichotis patagonum
DESCRIPTION
The Mara, or Patagonian Cavy, is a large rodent native to Argentina. It has a slender body, long legs, and a distinctive elongated head with large ears. Maras are known for their unique hopping gait, which resembles that of a kangaroo, and they are primarily active during the day, often seen grazing in open grasslands.
FUN FACTS
- Maras are known for their unique social structure, often forming monogamous pairs that stay together for life
- This strong bond is quite rare among rodents, making them a fascinating subject for study
- | Despite their resemblance to small kangaroos, Maras are more closely related to guinea pigs and other caviids
- Their hopping behavior is an adaptation to their open grassland habitat, allowing them to cover large distances quickly while foraging
QUICK INFO
Lifespan8-12 years in the wild, up to 15 years in captivit
Average Weight8-16 kg
Average Length70-80 cm
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structurepair or small groups, often seen in pairs or small family groups
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (September-November)
- Habitat
- Maras inhabit open grasslands and scrublands, often preferring areas with sparse vegetation. They are well-adapted to the arid conditions of their native range.
- Biomes
- Grassland, Savanna
- Native Range
- Maras are native to the central and southern regions of Argentina, particularly in the Patagonian steppe.
- Continent
- South America
- Countries
- Argentina
- Diet
- Maras are herbivores that primarily feed on grasses, herbs, and leaves. They have a preference for tender shoots and can often be seen foraging in their natural habitat.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, herbs, leaves
- Social Structure
- pair or small groups, often seen in pairs or small family groups
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-10
- Territorial
- 0
VU
8-16 kg
Weight
70-80 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Maras have a coarse, sandy-brown fur with lighter underparts, providing them with good camouflage in their natural habitat.
- Lifespan
- 8-12 years in the wild, up to 15 years in captivit
- Gestation Period
- 90-100 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-3
- Sexual Maturity
- 6-12 months
- Breeding Season
- Spring (September-November)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Maras is currently stable, but they face habitat loss due to agricultural expansion.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 50,000-100,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats to Maras include habitat destruction and hunting. Their populations are affected by agricultural practices that reduce their natural habitat.
- Predators
- foxes, pumas, birds of prey
- Defense Mechanisms
- Maras rely on their speed and agility to escape predators, often using their strong hind legs to make quick jumps.
- Compatible Animals
- none
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon