• Key Information

  • Capybaras

  • Species
    Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris
  • Diet
    Herbivore
  • Length
    3 ft 6 inches to 4 ft 5 inches
  • Height
    20 to 24 inches
  • Weight
    77 to 146 lb
  • Lifespan
    8 to 10 years
  • Classification
    Mammalia > Rodentia > Caviidae
  • Conservation Status
    Least Concerned
  • Habitat
    Dense forests near bodies of wate, as well as flooded savannah and along rivers in the tropical rainforest.
  • Learning Point
  • Capybaras are the largest rodent on earth that live in South America. They are herbivores, and love being in and around water. They form family groups that share in raising their young.
  • Project
  • Draw a group of capybaras.
  • Location
  • Places
    South America
  • Fun Facts
  • The name capybara comes from the native Tupi language and means "one who eats slender leaves", or "grass-eater".
  • They are similar to guinea pigs and rock cavies, and can live in groups as big as 100 individuals.
  • Extinct forms of rodents similar to the capybara have been found from prehistoric times.
  • They love water, and can happily swim in it all day, especially when the weather is hot.
  • Unlike most herbivores, they don't chew from side to side, but rather back and forth.