Patagonian Cavy

Scientific Name: Dolichotis Patagonum

Habitat: Grasslands, Shrublands

Diet: Herbivore

Weight: 18-35 lbs.

Conservation Status: Near Threatened

Range: Central & Southern Argentina

Lifespan: 5-10 Years

Size: 27-30 in.

The Patagonian mara is a relatively large rodent in the mara genus Dolichotis. It is also known as the Patagonian cavy or Patagonian hare. This herbivorous, somewhat rabbit-like animal is found in open and semi-open habitats in Argentina, including large parts of Patagonia

Our Residents

Our current resident patagonian cavy, Cooper, was born in 2010. Cooper arrived at the sanctuary in May 2019 from a rescue in South Carolina, after an owner surrendered him in poor condition

Our current resident patagonian cavy, Cooper, was born in 2010. Cooper arrived at the sanctuary in May 2019 from a rescue in South Carolina, after an owner surrendered him in poor condition

In the wild, Cavies eat mainly grasses, leaves and fruits. We try to keep Cooper's diet at the sanctuary very similar. His diet is supplemented with special rodent pellets. His favorite treat is sweet potato although fresh, edible branches are a clo

In the wild, Cavies eat mainly grasses, leaves and fruits. We try to keep Cooper's diet at the sanctuary very similar. His diet is supplemented with special rodent pellets. His favorite treat is sweet potato although fresh, edible branches are a close second.