Patagonian Cavy

Range: Central to southern Argentina

That's one big rodent! : Cavies are one of the largest rodents in the world! Full grown cavies can stand up to18 inches tall and weigh up to 20 pounds. They are mostly brown and have a white belly and chest.

Diet: In the wild, they eat grasses and other plants.

I'll get there one way or another : Cavies can run up to 30 mph. They rely on their speed to escape predators. They have four different ways of getting around. They can walk, hop, gallop or bounce.

True Love:They form life-long bonds with their mates. The male will protect the female and the territory around her. Cavies usually travel in large groups of up to 30 or more pairs.

Lifespan: Up to 10 years in captivity

Status: Populations are declining due to habitat destruction. They also have competition with an introduced species, the European hare. The hares eat the same type of food and can reproduce much faster.

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