Mara

Maras usually live in mating pairs in small groups of 8 to 10 individuals, made up of adults and the offspring born during the year. These small groups sometimes come together to form colonies of around 30 individuals. Maras are small diurnal rodents. They like to build their dens in wide open spaces surrounded by grasses and other low-lying plants. The development of farming, sheep breeding in particular, has contributed to the destruction of their habitat, and the European hare introduced by humans has brought disease. Maras are also hunted for their fur. All of this has led to a decline in the population of this species.

Maras are found in Argentina.

The female produces a litter once a year. The male does not help rear its offspring but defends the family against predators.

• 
  Habitat

  Desert and savannah
• Food

  Leaves, seeds, fruit and flowers

Did you know ?

The mara is a naturally nervous animal. It is constantly on the lookout and regularly monitors the surrounding area by standing up on its hind legs. It raises the alarm in case of danger. To detect predators (pumas or foxes), it relies on its highly developed senses: hearing, sight and smell. It can also run at a maximum speed of 45 km/h.