Dasyprocta ruatanica Thomas, 1901

Common Name and Initial Comparison

Dasyprocta ruatanica, commonly called the Ruatan Island agouti, closely resembles the more widespread Central American agouti, but is noticeably smaller.

Body Length

Its head-body length measures around 44 cm, or 17 inches.

General Pelage Coloration

The species has orange-brown fur covering its entire body, which fades to a paler, olivaceous shade on the underparts.

Distinctive Body Markings

Its back has grizzled black ticking, it has a white spot on the chin, and a yellowish patch on the belly.

Ear Morphology

Unlike the naked ears of Central American agoutis, the ears of the Ruatan Island agouti bear a few dark hairs.

Color Comparison to Related Species

The overall body color of the Ruatan Island agouti is described as richer than that of the Central American agouti.

Species Identification Reliability

These color differences are slight, however, so they are less reliable than body size for distinguishing the two species.

Habitat and Distribution

Ruatan Island agoutis inhabit brushy scrub forest across the island of Roatán.

Diet

In this habitat, they feed on almonds, coconuts, hibiscus, and Pentaclethra pods.