Welfare of Patagonian Mara in Captivity

Patagonian maras are large South American rodents sometimes kept in zoos and as exotic pets, with complex social needs.

Key Facts

Patagonian maras are monogamous and pair for life
They resemble small deer but are rodents related to guinea pigs
In the wild they form communal creches where multiple pairs raise young together
Their mating bonds are so strong that widowed individuals often do not remate
Some zoos keep them in naturalistic settings with other species

Welfare Considerations

Patagonian maras have strong pair bonds and social needs that require careful housing in captivity. Lone individuals separated from their mate show significant behavioral distress. Inadequate space prevents their characteristic bounding gait. Insufficient social complexity for a communal species causes welfare deficits. As exotic pets they are rarely kept in appropriate conditions. Even in good zoo conditions their welfare needs for space and social complexity are challenging to fully meet.

What You Can Do

Never acquire a Patagonian mara as a pet
Support zoos that house maras in appropriate social groups
Learn about this unique species and its conservation status
Advocate for banning or regulating exotic rodent ownership