Azara’s agouti

Agoutis are relatives of guinea pigs. They are very fond of nuts, which they bury underground for later consumption. As they often fail to return to their buried treasure, agoutis play a significant role in promoting the spread of nut trees.

Agoutis are heavily preyed upon, and they can only rely on their strong legs and loud vocalisations. When an agouti is alarmed, it puffs up the hair on its hind body.

The wild populations of Azara’s agoutis have declined, but its exact endangered status is unknown. It is listed as vulnerable in Argentina.