Ever heard of this animal? Probably not. Well then, let me introduce you to this strange mammal. Mexican Agouti commonly known as Mexican Black Agouti belongs to the order Rodentia which makes it related to rabbits and rats. It was first introduced to Cuba in the 1930s but can also be seen in the southern part of Mexico. They look quite similar to guinea pigs, but have longer and larger legs.
Behavioral Characteristics and Description
Agoutis of Mexico are generally blackish-brown in color. They have rounded backs and thin, long legs. The ventral part from the throat to the stomach is whitish-brown in color. Coarse hairs surround their body and raises when threatened. They can grow up to 24 inches in length and can weigh up to 4 kilograms. In their natural habitat, they seem to be shy and flee away from humans and are known for running very fast.
Agoutis are good swimmers. At night, they hide themselves in tree trunks and among roots. Mexican Agoutis make alarm calls by feet stamping and loud nasal barks while running.
Feeding
Agoutis are primarily fruigivores. When eating, they sit on their hind legs while holding food with their front legs. They eat fallen fruits and leaves but can sometimes climb trees to eat green fruits. They gather up to group of 100 when feeding. Agoutis are also food hoarders; collecting them in small and buried places. Sometimes, they are considered pests to banana and sugarcane plantations. On the contrary, they serve as food sources for cats, birds and snakes.
Take note: Aside from macaws, they are the only animal species that can open Brazil nuts without the use of tools.
Significance in the Ecosystem
Mexican Agoutis serve as primary seed dispersers. By eating seedlings and dispersing them, they are the ones responsible for wide distribution of tree species to the forest to which they live. They are also food source to other larger species of animals in the forest. Furthermore, several parasitic species depends on Agoutis for survival, like fleas.
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