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Facts about Frogs , Amphibians, Reptiles, Fish & other Animals |
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Agouti |
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PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Red-rumped agoutis are 16-25 inches long (including a one-inch tail), and weigh from two to nine pounds. They are rodents and look a bit like huge tailless rats or squirrels. Their hair is coarse and glossy, longest on the rump. In this species, the long hairs on the hind quarters are usually reddish or orange. Ears are small, tail a black naked stub, whiskers black. Most of the fur is grizzled black or brown. DISTRIBUTION: These agoutis range through Brazil and the Guineas north of the Amazon and east of the Rio Negro River. South of the Amazon they occur east of the Madeira. They are generally common, but shy and difficult to see in the wild. HABITAT: They can be found throughout the forest, but most often in areas of good undergrowth cover, around large tree falls, and near streams, rivers and swamps. Sometimes they inhabit gardens and plantations. They tend to dig burrows if the soil allows. BEHAVIOR: Agoutis are normally active during the day, but become nocturnal if disturbed or molested. When food is plentiful they bury excess nuts and fruits for use when food is scarce. This behavior makes them important seed dispersers for many tree species. |
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FactFrog.com |
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