Individuals of Patagonian Maras, a rodent species endemic to Argentina, have been observed in a desert oasis in the United Arab Emirates.
A species of rodent far from its natural habitat
Several individuals of Patagonian Maras, a rodent species endemic to Argentina, were discovered in Al Qudra Lakes, a desert oasis located 40 kilometers south of downtown Dubai. By some estimates, up to 200 Maras could thrive in the region and the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, AP News says.
How these animals ended up in the United Arab Emirates, far from their natural habitat, has not yet been explained. The arid climate and the fauna and flora of the Arabian Peninsula, different from those that this species is used to having in the center and south of Argentina, is surprising.
The third largest rodent in the world
The Maras of Patagonia, Dolichotis patagonum in Latin, is a mammal described as resembling a rabbit, or a hare, which has long legs and large ears. It is the third largest living rodent, measuring 75 cm and 16 kg, behind the capybara and the beaver.
These rodents are herbivores and therefore feed on grasses, plants, roots and even bark. They are particularly known for being experts in building burrows which can reach depths of 10 meters. They use their claws to build this refuge which protects them from extreme temperatures and predators.
A species almost threatened by exotic animal trafficking
The Patagonian Maras is a species classified as “near threatened” in the IUCN red list. This threat comes from several factors. Indeed, there is, for example, the degradation and loss of its habitat, which results from the increase in the human population and the development of the agricultural and industrial world.
Exotic animal trafficking is also one of the reasons why this species is endangered. For many years, the Patagonian Mara has been at the heart of trafficking where they are used as pets. This may be a clue as to the explanation of the presence of this animal in Arab lands, where the exoticism of animals is very popular.
Source: AP News
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