A WEST Somerset zoo has replaced its lawnmowers with large rodents called mara.

New containment fencing has been built around parts of Tropiquaria, at Washford Cross, near Watchet, to allow the zoo’s mara population to roam the grounds after closing time.

The maras can now leave their paddock and graze on lawns in neighbouring enclosures, helping to keep the grass cut.

Tropiquaria director Chris Moiser said: “During closed hours, we are now employing our group of mara as grounds keepers.

“This is good for several reasons.

“It allows the paddock some much needed respite, since the mara have munched away most of the grass.

“It also means with the mara mowing the lawn we can reduce our usage of machinery, and most importantly, the mara have a jolly good time.”

Maras are are a near-threatened species and can be found only in Patagonia, in Argentina, and feed mostly on green vegetation such as grass, and fruit.

The long eared and long legged rodents are monogamous and pairs stay together for life.

Tropiquaria, which is open daily from 10.30 am to 5 pm, has also just celebrated a big birthday with Harry the brown lemur, turning 20 years old.

The zoo is also an animal sanctuary and works closely with the RSPCA and other exotic wildlife organisations, to help rescue and re-home animals, and supports conservation and breeding projects. 

It does not receive any Goverment funding for its conservation projects and relies on paying customers and donations from individuals and small businesses.