PATAGONIAN MARA
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What Is The Patagonian Mara?The Patagonian mara, also known as the Patagonian hare or cavy, is a large rodent species that is often said to look like a cross between a rabbit and a deer, or other hoofed animal. It is the 4th largest rodent, just bigger than a porcupine and smaller than a muskrat. They’re heavy, but they’re well equipped to move when they have to. Maras are active during the day time, and largely herbivores. They diet on green vegetation, seeds, flowers and fruit. This animal grows to a length of between 27 and 30 inches with a short tail of around 2 inches on average. Its physical appearance is marked by its long front legs, large ears, and muscular back legs that are perfect for hopping. Its feet are distinctive in shape as well, with a rounded and compact shape that makes them appear to be hoof-like at first glance. Additionally, the head of this species is elongated with a slightly rounded snout that is similar in shape to the head of a kangaroo. In captivity, this species has been recorded to live up to 14 years. Maras are exceptionally agile. They are highly adapted to moving quickly, and their legs are well evolved for leaping. Specialized bones in the legs mean they can handle heavy impacts and channel energy into impressive jumps. They’ve been reported to jump almost 6ft off the ground. With elongated and effectively-angled limb bones, they’re more nimble than they look. They are also considered the fastest rodent in the world and can run more than 30 MPH.
Where Does The Patagonian Mara Live?The Patagonian mara has only ever been reported in Argentina. Here, this species inhabits large, open grasslands and can be found across significant expanses of the Patagonia region. The Patagonian mara travels in pairs (as it maintains the same mates for life) and the two may cover a territory of around 242 acres on average. The male Patagonian mara is particularly protective of his partner and mating season for this species occurs between August and January, with litters born approximately 100 days after fertilization. When the young are born, the Patagonian mara may live in communal burrows of up to 44 adult individuals (or 22 pairs). Within its habitat, this species relies on grass and grass-like plants as its primary food source, although it has also been recorded eating fruits, seeds, and flowers. Interestingly, the Patagonian mara may consume its waste in order to ensure optimum nutritional consumption.
Where Does The Patagonian Mara Live?The Patagonian mara has only ever been reported in Argentina. Here, this species inhabits large, open grasslands and can be found across significant expanses of the Patagonia region. The Patagonian mara travels in pairs (as it maintains the same mates for life) and the two may cover a territory of around 242 acres on average. The male Patagonian mara is particularly protective of his partner and mating season for this species occurs between August and January, with litters born approximately 100 days after fertilization. When the young are born, the Patagonian mara may live in communal burrows of up to 44 adult individuals (or 22 pairs). Within its habitat, this species relies on grass and grass-like plants as its primary food source, although it has also been recorded eating fruits, seeds, and flowers. Interestingly, the Patagonian mara may consume its waste in order to ensure optimum nutritional consumption.
