Reproduction

Maras are monogamous and mate for life.The breeding season is from August to September. The female comes in to estrus 4 times per year with each instance lasting just 30 minutes.

In the wild birth generally occurs between September and October after a 100 day gestation. While they generally only have one littler mara’s have been known to give birth to up to four litters a year.

During the breeding season a den is dug. In this den up to 22 pairs may keep their young. Females will give birth in the open before quickly moving these young to the den. Pairs take turns at caring for the young in the den.

The first three weeks of the babies life is spent in or near the den. By 13 weeks the babies are weaned.

Behaviour

Maras will spend just under half their day searching for food. For females this may be greater as they must prepare for children or feed them. During the day they will bask in the sun.

Mated pairs move around together and the male will work hard to protect the female against threats.

They are capable of digging and create dens under the ground. A pair may occupy their own den or they may create a settlement with the dens of up to 29 pairs interconnected.

Predators of this species include cats such as the puma, foxes and birds of prey.

They are a very faster runner. One has been clocked at up to 72km/h (45mph).

Quick facts

The mara is also known as the Patagonian cavy or the Patagonian hare.

The mara is the second largest species of cavy after the capybara and the fourth largest species of rodent.

Mara’s can get around by walking, hopping, galloping or bouncing on all fours.