Also known as the mara, Patagonian cavies are found in the dry grasslands of the Argentine foothills, in an area known as Patagonia. Although excellent diggers, Patagonian cavies generally inhabit burrows abandoned by other animals, small caves and other naturally occurring shelters.

 

Extremely social animals, they live in large groups of monogamous pairs. Young are kept in communal burrows, with all the females in a group sharing baby care duties. In fact, female Patagonian cavies will even nurse each other's litters.

 

Like most social animals, Patagonian cavies are rather talkative. Their most common vocalizations are strikingly similar to those of guinea pigs. They use their almost constant vocalizations to reinforce social connections, warn of danger, and express contentment.  This information was taken from www.pawprintonline.com

 

At Cub Creek Science Camp the Patogonian Cavy is always very popular with our campers.  They have a sweet, shy disposition and are inquisitive.  They love treats of apples and wheat bread.  At Science Camp the campers learn how to care for the Patagonian cavies and what to feed them.