The Patagonian mara (Dolichotis patagonum) resembles a jackrabbit and is found in open and semiopen habitats in Argentina, including large parts of Patagonia. An unusual looking species of rodent, with long hare-like ears and a body resembling that of a small deer, it is also known as the Patagonian cavy or Patagonian hare. However, it is more closely related to the guinea pig. Built for speed, it has long powerful hind legs, which give it the ability to rapidly escape from predators – at up to 45km per hour. The front legs are shorter, with four sharp claws that help the species to dig burrows.
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