Spalacopus – Coruro

A small, sturdy rodent that lives an underground life in the central and southern regions of Chile. Though not well-known outside its native range, the coruro is a fascinating creature — something like a cross between a mole and a guinea pig, with its own unique twist. It belongs to the tuco-tuco family, but it’s the only species in its genus, making it extra special. This little mammal is a master of digging and thrives in sandy soils and grassy hills, where it spends most of its time hidden beneath the surface.

Coruros are stocky, short-limbed animals, with strong front claws made for burrowing and soft, dark fur that helps them move easily through tunnels. They have short ears, a blunt snout, and large, chisel-like incisors that they use to dig and gnaw roots — all features that suit their subterranean lifestyle. They live in colonies, unlike many of their solitary relatives. These colonies can include complex tunnel networks, complete with separate chambers for sleeping, food storage, and raising young.

Coruros are herbivores, feeding mainly on roots, bulbs, grasses, and underground plant parts. They rarely come above ground during the day, preferring the safety and comfort of their tunnels. When they do emerge, it’s usually close to the entrance of their burrow, and they stay alert for predators. One of their most interesting features is their vocal communication — coruros make chirping and squeaking sounds that echo through their tunnels, helping them coordinate with other members of the colony.