Capybara

Capybara skeleton

Yellow-headed caracara (Milvago chimachima) on capybara (Hydrochoeris hydrochaeris)

Capybara swimming

Capybara Eating Hay 11 11 2018

Cattle tyrant (Machetornis rixosa) on Capybara

Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) is the largest living rodent in the world. Native to South America, it inhabits savannas and dense forests and lives near bodies of water. Capybaras are a key part of their ecosystems and are known for their gentle nature and social behavior.

Description

Capybaras have heavy, barrel-shaped bodies and short heads with reddish-brown fur on the upper part of their body that turns yellowish-brown underneath. They can reach up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) in length and weigh up to 65 kg (143 lbs). Capybaras have slightly webbed feet and vestigial tails, adaptations that aid their excellent swimming abilities.

Behavior

Capybaras are highly social animals, living in groups of 10 to 20 individuals, though some groups can number more than 100. These groups are usually dominated by a single male, with the rest of the group made up of females, their young, and subordinate males. Capybaras are excellent swimmers and can remain submerged for up to five minutes to evade predators. They feed mainly on grasses and aquatic plants during the early morning and late evening.

Reproduction

The breeding season for capybaras varies by region but can occur throughout the year. After a gestation period of about 150 days, a female capybara will give birth to a litter of 2 to 8 young. Newborn capybaras are well-developed and can eat grass within a week of birth, although they continue to suckle until they are about 16 weeks old.

Habitat and Distribution

Capybaras are found throughout much of northern and central South America, including eastern Colombia, Venezuela, the Amazon Basin, and as far south as northern Argentina. They live in a variety of wetland habitats, including rivers, lakes, swamps, and marshes.

Conservation Status

The capybara is not currently considered endangered, thanks to its wide distribution and high reproductive rate. However, they face threats from habitat destruction and hunting for their meat and hide. In some areas, capybaras are farmed, which helps reduce hunting pressure on wild populations.

Cultural Significance

In many parts of South America, capybaras are an important part of local culture. They are often featured in folklore and myths. In some regions, capybaras are also raised for their meat, which is considered a delicacy.