Agouti, Azara's

Habitat

Tropical rainforest and tropical dry forest.

Wild Diet

Fruits, nuts, seeds, shoots and leaves.

Behaviour

Agoutis usually live alone, roaming the forest floor searching for fallen fruit and nuts. Agoutis, like many other rodents will freeze and remain motionless in the face of danger. They dig burrows under rocks and amongst tree roots. These secretive animals are naturally shy and will hide in their burrows when they feel threatened. Although they are naturally active during the daytime, if they live in an area where they are disturbed on a regular basis they will become nocturnal.

Breeding

2 youngsters are born after a gestation of approximately 3 months. The young are kept in the burrow in a nest lined with leaves, roots and hair.

Threats

Azara's Agoutis are threatened by habitat destruction and hunting.