Patagonian Cavies or Mara are large
members of the rodent family. They are about 2 to 2 1/2 feet long with a
stubby tail almost not noticeable, and weigh about 15 to 20 pounds when
fully grown. They are from South America and live in colonies much like
prairie dogs. They are grazing animals in they're native land but here at
GarLyn Zoological Park they are fed a diet of rabbit pellets, good grass and
clover mix hay and treats of apples and carrots. They are also extremely
fond of monkey chow. They are housed in a large enclosure with a top, due to
their ability to jump quite high when alarmed. They don't appear to like to
walk in snow but handle the extremely cold weather well, when supplied with
plenty of dry straw or hay to bed down in along with shelter from the
elements.
They give birth to babies that are
fully developed, eyes open and covered with fur. The babies are up and
running within an hour or so. They can have up to 5 babies in a litter but
ours usually have only 2 or 3. They usually give birth twice per year.
If you would like to see more photos of Patagonian Cavy
at the zoo
CLICK HERE
