Patagonian mara

Although the Patagonian mara looks like a short-eared hare, it is actually not a hare at all, but a rodent related to the guinea pig. In its natural habitat on the Argentine pampas, the Patagonian mara must constantly be on the alert for predators such as foxes, pumas and humans. When necessary, the Patagonian mara can spring to its feet and run even long distances at 45 km/h. Patagonian mara couples spend their nights in burrows.

Patagonian maras live in pairs, but their young live in shared dens which can house litters from up to 15 couples. Parents visit the dens one pair at a time to feed their young once or twice a day. Females nurse only their own young, which they identify by scent. Other young looking for milk will be sent brusquely on their way. A female Patagonian mara gives birth to 1-3 young at a time, once or twice a year.