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THE MARA. 



CHAPTER IV 



The Animals of Patagonia and Chile 



The fauna of the Patagonian and Chilian province is closely related to that 

 of the tropical districts of the South American region, but includes a few- 

 peculiar, or almost peculiar, tvpes, and is therefore deserving of a separate section. 

 The area embraces a large part of Argentina as well as Tierra del Fuego, and is 

 inhabited by guanacos, pampas deer, guemal, and rheas. 



One of the most characteristic mammals of the open districts of- 

 Argentina and Patagonia is the pampas cat (Felis pajeros), a species 

 about the size of the European wild cat, but stouter in build. In colour it is 

 yellowish grey, striped obliquely with yellow or brownish bands, with the tail 

 and legs ringed, and the cheek marked by two dark streaks extending from 

 the eyes to the throat. Another species is Geoffroy's cat (F. geoffroyi) of the 



Argentine pampas. 



4*i 



Pampas Cat. 



