North American hutia (SciiFii)

The North American hutia (Capromys californianus) is a species of hutia, most closely related to the Desmarest's hutia (Capromys pilorides), that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the rainforests, wetlands, forests, open woodlands, grasslands, shrublands, and mountainous regions across mainland North America to help boost biodiversity. The North American hutia has a head-and-body length of 31–60 cm (12–24 inches), a tail that is 14–29 cm (5.5–11.4 inches) long, and weigh 2.8–8.5 kg (6.2–18.7 lb). It has thick, coarse fur which extends to the tip of the tail. The colour of the body fur varies from black to brown, with a dark tan colour and red also seen. The body is stocky and the legs short. It moves with a slow, waddling gait, but can perform a quick hop when pursued. The feet have five toes with large claws which assist the animal in climbing. The stomach is divided into three compartments by constrictions in the gut and is among the most complex of any rodent. The North American hutia is an omnivore and primarily feeds on bark, leaves, nuts, seeds, and fruits, although it will occasionally take small vertebrates such as lizards. North American hutias normally live in pairs, but can be found individually or in small groups. They are diurnal and, during the night, they rest in burrows, hollows in rocks or trees. Both males and females scent mark their territory with urine. They breed between mid-spring to early summer, with a gestation period of between 100 and 130 days (normally around 110 to 115 days), although peak breeding season is in June/July. They normally produce between two and four young, weighing an average of 230 grams (8 oz). The young are precocial, with fur, fully open eyes and the ability to walk. They are weaned at around five months and reach sexual maturity at around ten months. In captivity they live for eight to eleven years. The conservation status of the North American hutia is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the North American hutia's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii