Viscacha rat

The Viscacharatte ( Octomys mimax ) is a living in South America rodent species from the family of deceit rats ( Octodontidae ). With the Viscacha it is not closely related.

Viscacharatten reach a body length 14-18 centimeters, the tail is 13 to 16 inches long and ends in a bushy tassel. The weight varies 120-145 grams. The fur of these animals is a light brown color on the top, the belly and feet are white.

These animals are found in the provinces of Catamarca, La Rioja, San Juan and the north of Mendoza, in northwestern Argentina. Their habitat is mountain slopes and steppe -like Monte - region, overall it inhabits relatively dry habitats.

Very little is known about the habits of these rodents. They are nocturnal and spend the day sleeping in their burrows. They are herbivores, the female can deliver a litter several times a year.

Even on the level of risk, little is known. The species is considered rare, but there are no signs that man-made reasons behind this rarity. The IUCN lists them as safely, but that is out of date.