When I first saw these mammals in Honduras, I guessed that they might be part of the woodchuck family. In fact this is an agouti. They are found in southern Mexico. through Central America and into northern South America.

Though some populations are reduced due to hunting and deforestation, large populations remain and it is not considered threatened.

Agouti are active during the day and live in monogamous pairs.

They mainly feed on fruits and seeds and are important seed dispersers.

As you can see, they are similar in shape to guinea pigs but are considerably larger.

Local people tell me that they call them “rabbits” because they frequently hop.

Miles Hearn