At adulthood, these creatures can weigh up to 60 kg, comparable to the weight of a sheep. Notably, there has been a recorded instance of a rodent weighing 105.4 kg, equivalent to that of a sow.
This species of rodent inhabits areas ranging from Panama to Northeast Argentina, along the eastern Andes in South America. It is not only the largest rodent but also the largest member of the order Rodentia worldwide.
Known as the capybara, this rodent gets its name due to its resemblance to a guinea pig and its ability to thrive both on land and in water, thanks to its webbed feet.
Capybaras have adapted well to wetland environments, ponds, marshes, and even tropical rainforests. They are capable of diving deep and can hold their breath for up to 5 minutes underwater.
Capybara
Their preferred diet includes tree bark, leaves, fruits, and aquatic plants. Capybaras are quite friendly towards humans, which is why many people in various regions keep them as pets. However, in the U.S., a special permit is required to keep capybaras as pets.
These animals exhibit highly organized social behavior. Large groups of capybaras, sometimes up to 100 individuals, have been observed. Typically, herds consist of about 10 to 20 members.
In many regions of South America, capybaras are hunted for food and their skin is used to make various items. Capybara meat is particularly popular in Venezuela. However, due to their good reproductive rates, there is currently no risk of extinction for these giant rodents.
Capybaras have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years in the wild, but they only live about 3 to 4 years in captivity.
Capybaras are a favorite meal for jaguars, ocelots, hawks, and especially the giant South American anaconda.
Capybaras prefer to mate in water. Their gestation period lasts from 130 to 150 days, and each litter usually consists of 1 to 8 pups, with 4 being the most common. Even while nursing, the pups start to graze on grass. They are weaned after about 16 weeks.
Capybara
Giant Capybara weighing 105.4 kg
Capybaras kept as pets
Capybara hunted for food
Children playing with capybaras
Family of Capybaras
