Meet the Patagonian Cavies (Maras) at Babby Farms in Caldwell

If you’re searching for family-friendly things to do in Caldwell this season, put Babby Farms on your list — especially if you love unique animals. Babby Farms is open for the 2026 season, and one of the most interesting animals you can meet is the Patagonian cavy, also known as the Patagonian mara.

People sometimes mistake them for a capybara at first glance, but Patagonian maras are their own animal — and they’re a perfect fit for an up-close farm experience because they’re curious, social, and full of personality.

Babby Farms visitors can see these amazing animals as part of their visit, and you can also meet them during an Exotic Encounter (available in addition to regular admission).

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What Is a Patagonian Cavy (Patagonian Mara)?

The Patagonian cavy (mara) is a large rodent native to South America. It’s in the same broad family group as guinea pigs and capybaras, but it’s easy to recognize by its:

• Long legs (built for running)

• Rabbit-like ears

• Deer-like face

• Calm but alert personality

Because they’re often seen in exotic animal settings, many people look them up after meeting them — which is one reason they make such a great educational animal at Babby Farms in Caldwell.

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Native Habitat: Where Patagonian Cavies Come From

Patagonian maras are native to Argentina, especially the wide-open landscapes of Patagonia. Their natural environment is made up of:

• Dry grasslands and scrub

• Open plains

• Semi-arid regions

• Areas with low brush where they can hide and rest

In the wild, they are adapted to open terrain, which is why they have long legs and are such fast runners. They rely on speed and awareness rather than climbing or digging elaborate dens like some other species.

Patagonian cavies are typically active during the day, especially in cooler hours, which makes them a great animal for visitors to observe during farm hours.

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What Patagonian Cavies Eat

Patagonian cavies are herbivores, meaning they eat plant-based foods. In their native habitat, they spend a lot of time grazing and browsing. Their diet commonly includes:

• Grasses

• Leaves and herbs

• Shrubs

• Seeds

• Fruits or vegetables as occasional treats (in human care, carefully selected)

Because their digestive systems are built for fiber, a high-fiber diet is important. Like many grazing animals, they do best when their diet is focused on plant materials and roughage.

When you visit Babby Farms, you may even get to see how these animals interact with enrichment items and treats during an Exotic Encounter.

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Fun Facts About Patagonian Cavies (Maras)

Patagonian maras are full of surprises. Here are a few fun facts that visitors love:

1) They’re Built for Speed

Maras can move quickly and gracefully — their long legs help them sprint across open ground, which is a key survival trait in the wild.

2) They Look Like a Mix of Animals

Many people describe them as a combination of a rabbit, a small deer, and a guinea pig — but they’re truly their own species.

3) They’re Social and Observant

Patagonian cavies are naturally alert. You’ll often see them watching what’s happening around them, especially when people are nearby.

4) They Communicate With Body Language

Like many prey animals, they rely on subtle signals — posture, movement, and proximity — to communicate comfort and awareness.

5) They’re a “Wait…What Is That?” Animal

They’re one of those animals that makes people stop and say, “What is that?” which makes them a standout favorite for families visiting Babby Farms in Caldwell.

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See Patagonian Cavies at Babby Farms in Caldwell

Whether you’re local or visiting the area, Babby Farms is a great stop for animal lovers and families looking for something different to do. Visitors can see Patagonian cavies as part of the farm experience, and you can also ask about meeting them in an Exotic Encounter, offered in addition to regular admission.

If you’re looking for:

• things to do in Caldwell Idaho

• family activities in Caldwell

• Caldwell farm attractions

• animal encounters near Caldwell

• kid-friendly activities in Caldwell

Babby Farms is a fun, educational place to spend your day — and the Patagonian cavies are one of the most unique animals you’ll meet.