Rock Cavy Kerodon rupestris

The Rock Cavy is the only mammal endemic to the Caatinga eastern semi-desert region of Brazil. Guinea-pig-sized rodents, they are more closely related to the Capybara than to the "Cavia" species and have the square muzzle of the former.

They are social and communicative creatures living in groups with a dominant male who builds or guards a rock shelter. They also shelter in rock crevices and climb well. Both parents care for the young. They are hunted for human food and have suffered habitat loss.