Habitat:
tropical forests, rainforests, riverbanks

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and description:
The lowland paca, or Cuniculus paca, is a medium-sized rodent native to the tropical forests of Central and South America. It is easily identifiable by its brown fur with distinct white spots on its sides. Pacas are nocturnal animals that spend the day in burrows dug near water bodies. They are herbivores, primarily feeding on fruits, seeds, and leaves. Their behavior is generally suspicious, making them difficult to observe in the wild. Pacas play a crucial role in seed dispersal, aiding forest regeneration. Their population is stable, although they are sometimes hunted for their meat.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the paca, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of 400mm or more, as these animals are often suspicious and difficult to approach. Look for areas near water, as pacas prefer humid habitats. Be patient and discreet, as they are primarily active at night. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera in low light conditions. Avoid sudden movements and maintain a distance of at least 10 meters to avoid scaring them away.