RANGE Central and southern Argentina
HABITAT Arid grasslands and brushlands with a great deal of open space (region called the pampas in Argentina)
DIET Grasses and other vegetation
This species is also known as the"Patagonian mara" or "Patagonian hare". Patagonian cavies may walk or hop like hares or gallop like horses.
While most of their time is spent in pairs, large groups will form when grasses and herbs are plentiful. Patagonian cavies vocalize with grunts, grumbles, and screams.
Unlike most mammals, cavies are monogomous. As many as 15 cavy pairs will raise their offspring in one communal den (called a creche). Females use scent to locate their young.
Although it is widespread, its populations are declining due to loss of habitat, competition with large introduced herbivores and hunting, probably at a rate close to 30% over ten years.
