Dolichotis

Großer Mara 0505273

Patagonian Cavy

Patagonian Cavies, Melbourne Zoo, Melbourne

Dolichotis patagonum closeup

A mara at tropical wings

Dolichotis is a genus of rodent in the family Caviidae, native to the central and southern regions of South America. Members of this genus are commonly referred to as maras or Patagonian hares, although they are not true hares but rather large rodents. The genus contains two species: the Patagonian Mara (Dolichotis patagonum) and the Chacoan Mara (Dolichotis salinicola).

Description

Dolichotis species are characterized by their large size, long legs, and short tails, which make them resemble hares. They have a distinctive body shape with a robust build, and their fur is typically brown or grey in color, which helps them blend into their natural surroundings. These animals are well adapted to their environments, with strong hind legs that allow them to run at high speeds and evade predators.

Habitat and Distribution

The Patagonian Mara is primarily found in open and semi-arid regions of Patagonia, in southern Argentina. It prefers habitats with sparse vegetation, which allows for better visibility to spot predators. The Chacoan Mara, on the other hand, inhabits the Gran Chaco region, which spans across parts of Argentina, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Brazil. This species is adapted to a more varied habitat, including both dry forests and savannas.

Behavior

Dolichotis species are known for their social behavior. They live in pairs or small groups and exhibit a high degree of monogamy, with pairs often remaining together for life. These animals are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and spend much of their time foraging for food. Their diet mainly consists of grasses and other vegetation.

Maras communicate with each other through a series of vocalizations, body postures, and scent markings. They have a complex social structure and have been observed participating in communal rearing of their young, a rare behavior among rodents.

Conservation Status

Both species of Dolichotis face threats from habitat loss and hunting. The Patagonian Mara is classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), while the status of the Chacoan Mara is less clear due to a lack of recent data. Conservation efforts are in place to protect these unique rodents, including habitat preservation and the establishment of protected areas.

Reproduction

Dolichotis species have a unique reproductive system among rodents. They have a long gestation period, and females give birth to relatively well-developed young. The offspring are cared for in communal burrows, which are shared by several pairs and their young. This communal care system helps increase the survival rate of the offspring.

In Culture

Due to their distinctive appearance and behavior, maras are often featured in zoos and wildlife parks around the world. They are known for their curious nature and can become quite tame in captivity, making them popular attractions.

See Also

• Caviidae
• Rodent
• Fauna of South America