🦫 Capybara
The capybara is the biggest rodent in the world — a calm, friendly swimmer from South America.
| Home | South America, near rivers and lakes |
|---|---|
| Size | About 4 feet long, up to 140 pounds |
| Food | Grass and water plants |
| Family | Rodents — cousins of guinea pigs |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years in the wild |
The biggest rodent on Earth
A capybara is a rodent, just like a mouse or a hamster — but much, much bigger. A grown-up capybara can weigh as much as a grown-up person! Its closest relative is the guinea pig.
Made for water
Capybaras love water. They have webbed toes that help them swim, and their eyes, ears and nose sit high on their heads, so they can stay almost completely underwater and still see, hear and breathe. When danger comes, a capybara dives in and can hold its breath for about five minutes.
Friends with everyone
Capybaras live in groups of 10 to 20. They are so calm that birds, monkeys and even turtles sit on their backs! Scientists think other animals trust capybaras because they are gentle plant-eaters.
What do they eat?
Capybaras are herbivores, which means they eat only plants — mostly grass and water plants. Their front teeth never stop growing, so chewing tough grass all day keeps them the right length.
Quick quiz
What kind of animal is a capybara?
Why are a capybara’s eyes and nose high on its head?
What does "herbivore" mean?