Agouti

rodent · South America · speedy

Rodent relative. Agoutis are related to guinea pigs but are much bigger and have much longer legs, which help them run fast through the forest.

Home in the tropics. These animals live in Central America, northern and central South America, and some Caribbean islands, where they scurry through forests and grasslands.

Many colors. Agoutis come in brown, reddish, orange, gray, or black, usually with lighter colored bellies and coarse hair that stands up when they get scared.

Quick getaway. Their long legs make them excellent runners, helping them escape from predators in the wild.