The Lowland Paca is a large, stocky spotted rodent of tropical forest undergrowth from Mexico to South America, where it is an important prey species for jaguars, ocelots, and harpy eagles. It is nocturnal, swimming readily to escape predators, and uses burrow systems near water. The paca is prized as bushmeat across its range, leading to population pressure even in protected areas.
Habitat
Tropical forest understory near rivers and streams
Diet
Fallen fruits, seeds, roots, and tubers
How common
Very rare
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