LAKEWOOD, Colorado –Remember that bizarre rabbit/deer hybrid animal that a mountain biker spotted on a Colorado trail? Well that Patagonian Mara is still out there somewhere in a Lakewood city park, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife is using the animal to highlight the importance of never releasing pets into the wild.
According to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, Patagonian Maras are typically about 27.5 inches in length and weigh somewhere between 17.6 and 35.3 pounds. They are not native to North America, inhabiting areas in central and southern Argentina with arid grasslands and brush land. They are not legal to own in Colorado.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife:
“Colorado Parks and Wildlife is reminding residents to not release unwanted pets into the wild, as it is illegal and unethical. Domesticated animals are often not able to fend for themselves to find food or shelter. Regardless if the species is native to Colorado or non-native, unleashing it into the wild can introduce new diseases, parasites and competition for wild species.Â
CPW suspects the exotic Patagonian Mara recently spotted in a Lakewood city park is an abandoned domesticated pet. This species is illegal to own as a pet in Colorado. Only licensed facilities may possess them in the state. CPW is continuing the search for the Patagonian Mara in hopes of placing it with an appropriate institution for long-term care. Please quickly report sightings to 303-291-7227.“
