The genus Cuniculus comprises two rodents commonly known as pacas. These animals are recognized by their stocky bodies and spotted or striped flanks, and they are native to parts of Central and South America.
Species
- Lowland paca, Cuniculus paca
- Mountain paca, Cuniculus taczanowskii
Range
Pacas occur across a wide latitudinal band, from southern Mexico through Central America and into South America as far south as northern Argentina.
Diet and feeding
In the wild pacas feed mainly on plant material, with fruit forming an important part of their diet. They also consume roots, seeds, leaves, buds and flowers. While they are primarily herbivorous in natural settings, animals kept in captivity commonly accept a broader diet that can include raw meat, small reptiles and insects.
Interactions with people
Pacas are hunted and sometimes managed as a source of bushmeat in parts of their range. They are also kept in some collections and breeding programs, where their diet and behaviour may differ from wild populations.