When other agoutis enter a claimed territory they are driven off, usually by the male. Territorial defense sometimes includes vicious fighting which results in serious wounds. Agoutis are basically diurnal, but shift their activities to night hours if they are hunted or commonly bothered by people. They often sit in an erect position, from which they can dart out of at a full speed if necessary. If danger threatens, they pause motionless with one forefoot raised.
Odors play an important role in agouti communication.
Agoutis devote considerable time to grooming to remove parasites, ticks and mites. Grooming among pairs occurs on occasion. Habitat Dasyprocta punctata are found in forests, thick brush, savannas, and cultivated areas. Agoutis are closely associated with water and often found along the banks of streams, rivers and lakes. They often build dens and numerous sleeping spots in hollow logs, among limestone boulders, under roots of trees or other vegetation.