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Patagonian Mara
Patagonian Mara
The Patagonian mara (Dolichotis patagonum) is a large rodent belonging to the guinea pig family (Caviidae) and is native to Argentina. It is one of the largest rodent in the world and is known for its unique appearance, which resembles a mix between a rabbit and a small deer. The Latin species name "Dolichotis" means "long ear."
The mara is an elegant rodent with a slim body, long, powerful legs, and distinctive, upright ears. Its fur is soft and gray-brown, with a noticeable white underside, and it has a short tail that is almost invisible at first glance. This species can reach a length of 70–75 cm and weigh between 8 and 13 kg, making it one of the largest members of the guinea pig family.
Patagonian mara are diurnal animals, with peak activity in the early morning and late afternoon. As herbivores, they primarily feed on grass, seeds, and other plant material. Like many other rodents, the mara eats and digests its own feces to maximize nutrient absorption from its food. The species thrives in dry grasslands and shrublands in Patagonia and other parts of Argentina, where it prefers flat, open areas. This type of habitat provides good visibility, helping the mara detect predators in time.
Flock
The social structure of the mara has a unique combination of monogamy and communal breeding, where males and females form lifelong pairs. Partner change occurs only if one of the individuals dies. The relationship is primarily maintained by the male, who constantly follows the female and "nurtures" their bond. He marks the female by urinating on her and actively protects her from rival males.
The female ovulates every 3–4 months, but the period lasts only half an hour. This short window may help explain the mara's monogamous pairing, as the male has a greater chance of mating with the female during this brief period. Pairs give birth either alone or together with other pairs in a communal burrow that can house up to 29 pairs. The breeding season lasts from August to January, and the pregnancy lasts for 100 days.
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Patagonian Mara in Tangen Dyrepark
At Tangen Zoo, we have 5 Patagonian mara. They are named Harry, Niall, Zayn, Liam, and Louis. They were brought from Kolmården Djurpark in Sweden in the fall of 2023 and have found their new home with us. In the park, they are located between the llamas and the miniature pigs.
Status: Near Threatened
Last assessed: March 01, 2016
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​Habitat destruction for agriculture and hunting for their skins has led to local extinctions, such as in Buenos Aires Province. The species competes with large, introduced herbivores such as sheep and the European hare. Its widespread distribution has become increasingly fragmented due to habitat loss, conversion of grasslands to pastures, and hunting.
IUCN- Red list
Did you know?
Rodent
​The mara is a large desert rodent that lives in the dry steppes of Argentina.
Name
The Patagonian Mara is also known as the Cavy, Patagonian Hare, and Dillaby.
Caviidae
If it reminds you of a capybara, it's because it belongs to the same family: Caviidae.