Patagonian Cavy
Scientific Name: Dolichotis patagonum
Habitat: Patagonian cavies are native to the sandy plains and shrubland of Argentina.
Diet: Patagonian cavies typically graze for grasses, cacti, and fruit.
Size: 2 to 2.5 feet high / 2.3 to 2.5 feet long
Weight: 6 to 10 pounds
Lifespan: 14 years
Conservation Status:
NEAR THREATENED
Our Patagonian Cavies:
Han – Born June 16th, 2016
Indie – Born June 9th, 2018
Bess – Born September 9th, 2017
About Patagonian Cavies:
Also called the Patagonian mara or Patagonian hare, Patagonian cavies are a small species of mammal found ONLY in southern and central Argentina. They typically reside in arid desert and scrubland habitats. Unfortunately, due to habitat loss, increased competition for food with domestic sheep and the European hare, Patagonian cavies are now considered near threatened as their population have started to decline.
Did You Know?!
- Although they are often mistaken as being rabbits or deer, Patagonian cavies are in the same family as the guinea pig.
- Patagonian cavies are the third largest rodent in the world behind the capybara and beaver.
- Patagonian cavies are capable of jumping 6 feet upward when scared.
- Patagonian cavies have quite a variety of noises that they make including grunts and screams.
- Since Patagonian cavies are so docile in nature, they have become popular pets and are known to be leashed and even “potty trained.”