North American agouti (SciiFii)

The North American agouti (Dasyprocta borealis), also known as the northern agouti, is a species of agouti from the family Dasyproctidae that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the rainforests, swamps, marshlands, forests, meadows, open woodlands, and grasslands across North America to help boost biodiversity. The North American agoutis weigh about 3 to 6 kilograms (6.6 to 13.2 lb). They are about 19 to 25 inches (48 to 64 cm) long. In this species the females are larger than males but otherwise look similar. They are brownish with darker spots on the upper body. The fur becomes slightly more orange as it goes past (going down) the middle area of the animal, but isn't as vibrant as those of the red-rumped agouti (Dasyprocta leporina), one of the closest living relatives of the North American agouti. The ears are somewhat square in shape. The front feet have 4 toes and the back have 3. They can be distinguished from other agoutis by their distinct coloring. These animals have no distinct breeding season, and females generally have about 1 to 3 young. The gestation period is 98 to 106 days. On average, it takes 20 weeks for the young to be weaned. They live in pairs or family groups of the parents and little ones. They need large areas for food, breeding, and territory. It is hard to keep the animal in captivity for that reason. Most animals in the family Dasyproctidae mate once or twice, and this is presumed to be true for this species as well. This species usually lives to be around 17-24 years in captivity, although reports of North American agoutis living to be 30 years or so have been recorded. The conservation status of the North American agouti is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the North American agouti's wide range, its immunity against any kind of diseases and viruses, and its tolerance to most of human activities, including being able to adapt to life in the cities and suburbs.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii