mountain viscacha

The mountain viscacha is a South American rodent belonging to the genus Lagidium. These rodents are similar to chinchillas and inhabit the Andes Mountains, typically at altitudes between 13,000 and 16,000 feet.1

Mountain viscachas have short forelimbs, long hindlimbs, and a long, bushy tail. They weigh up to 3 kg (6.6 pounds) and have a body length of 12 to 18 inches. Their fur is dense, with upperparts ranging from dark gray to brown and underparts that are white, yellow, or gray. They have long ears and resemble long-tailed rabbits.1

These rodents live in rocky cliffs and slopes, where they eat grasses, mosses, and lichens. They are agile climbers and are known for their gregarious nature, sometimes forming large colonies. When predators approach, they emit loud, birdlike whistles. At night, they shelter in rock crevices and tunnels.1