Although we do all we can to become involved with conservation programs and other endeavors to protect our planets wildlife, it’s the little things that we do that can make a big difference.  Hands on, we are working with Patagonian Cavies, which are currently a threatened species. 

Lisa Limbert, of Gilbert, Arizona, has begun a program to help increase the cavy population by introducing them into more zoos and wildlife educational programs.  Through her outreach, little Matilda has become a new member of our facility.  She came from a home in Missouri, but sadly her ears were being severely chewed by her mother or other siblings.  She was just a week old when we took her in.  Fortunately, her ears have rounded off well and she will now be used for education.

About the Patagonian Cavy

These Cavies, also commonly known as Patagonian Maras, come from Central and Southern Argentina.  The Patagonian Mara, icluding cavies, belongs to the Family Caviidae, along with guinea pigs and capybara.  They are one of the largest rodents in the world, after the beaver and capybara, and are most closely related to the guinea pig. 

Maras are monogamous creatures, mating for life.  Due to the nature of their social structure they usually stay paired with their mate, but will often travel in large herds. They prefer to live in burrows and inhabit scrub desert as well as arid grasslands. Raised in captivity, they can become very social animals.