Capybaras (also known as "Capibaras" or "Capienjo") are among the animals that have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. They are large and stocky, resembling more of a docile large dog than a rodent at first glance. Native to South America, capybaras almost always live near rivers, wetlands, and other bodies of water, primarily feeding on plants. One of their most endearing characteristics is their tendency to coexist peacefully with other animals, sometimes even appearing alongside potential predators in surprising scenes. Let's take a closer look at capybaras.
What is a capybara (Capibara/Carpincho)? What are its key characteristics?
Scientific identity and appearance of capybaras
The capybara, scientifically known as *Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris* , is a large rodent native to South America and is recognized as the largest rodent in the world . They typically have coarse, brownish-gray fur, short limbs, and a somewhat square facial profile, giving them an overall impression of being "simple and dignified."
Body size and weight
Body length : Commonly reaches approximately 1.2–1.3 meters.
Weight : Commonly close to 50–60 kg (significant differences exist between regions and individuals).
Semi-aquatic adaptation: Why can't they live without water?
Capybaras are typical semi-aquatic animals , possessing several structural advantages that make them "born for water":
Webbed toes : facilitate swimming, paddling, and walking in muddy wetlands.
The eyes are positioned high and slightly to the sides : even when most of the body is submerged in water, the person can still observe their surroundings.
The ears are located on the top of the head : they can still hear external sounds when submerged in water.
These characteristics allow capybaras to move, cool down, and avoid danger in the water while "semi-submerged."
What's the difference between "capybara" and "Carpincho"?
There's no difference ; they refer to the same animal, just with different names in different countries. Generally speaking:
Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay more commonly use: Carpincho
In Colombia, Peru, Brazil, and other countries, the more commonly used name is Capibara.
Where do capybaras live? Distribution range and typical habitats.
Distribution of capybaras
Capybaras are native to South America and can be found in most South American countries, including Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Argentina. Because they are highly dependent on aquatic environments, their distribution is often closely related to river networks and wetland systems.
Capybara's preferred habitat type
As long as there is water, grass, and shelter, capybaras can thrive. Common habitats include:
River and lake shores : lush vegetation and abundant food.
Wetlands and marshes : Rich in aquatic plants, providing shelter and cooling.
Mangroves and estuaries : In some areas, they can be seen active in the moist coastal ecosystem.
Because they cannot live without water, capybaras are sometimes called " water pigs " or " capybara pigs " (emphasizing that they are as sturdy as pigs and often spend their time in water).
What do capybaras eat? Their daily diet and nutritional requirements.
Purely herbivorous: The staple food is mainly plants.
Capybaras are entirely herbivorous animals, primarily eating:
Various grasses and herbaceous plants
buds and branches
Aquatic plants (plants found near water or in shallow water areas)
How much should I eat in a day?
Capybaras are large animals with high energy expenditure, so they need to consume a considerable amount of plants. Many sources describe this as "eating several kilograms of plants per day" (common estimates are around 3-4 kilograms), but the exact amount varies depending on the season, food quality, and individual size.
Capybara behavior: personality, social interaction and group structure
Gentle and calm: not easily disturbed
Capybaras are generally very calm and collected. When they encounter any disturbance, they usually observe first and then slowly retreat. They are not known for their aggression, relying more on "hiding" and "running into the water" to deal with risks.
Highly socialized: talking rodents
Capybaras are highly social animals and communicate using a variety of vocalizations, such as:
Remind your companions that there may be danger nearby.
Maintain group cohesion (especially when grass is tall or water is complex).
Declaring Space and Order
Group size: From small groups to "dry season super-gatherings"
The typical group consists of about 10–30 individuals .
During the dry season when water resources are scarce, many individuals will congregate in a few bodies of water, and the group may temporarily expand to hundreds.
This "dry season rally" serves two purposes: to secure water resources and to improve alert efficiency.
How do capybaras reproduce? Mating season, gestation period, and number of calves.
When is it easier to breed successfully?
Capybaras can reproduce year-round, but they are more likely to breed successfully during the rainy season because:
With more abundant plant resources, the mother plant can more easily obtain nutrients.
More abundant water provides an ideal environment for mating, cooling, and avoiding disturbances.
"One male and multiple females" group breeding pattern
In capybara groups, a relatively stable reproductive structure is typically formed by a dominant male and multiple females. The dominant male uses scent and behavioral markings to attract mates and maintain territory.
Pregnancy period and number of offspring
Pregnancy period : approximately 5 months
Litter size : typically 1–7 pups
Reproduction frequency : Usually once a year, but may reach twice a year under ideal conditions.
Fun Facts and Trivia about Capybaras
The incisors continue to grow : Like many rodents, capybaras' incisors do not stop growing and need to be worn down by gnawing.
They like to cool down by soaking in water : Capybaras often stay in the water for a long time, which not only helps them cool down but also relaxes their bodies.
When encountering predators, they "dive into the water to hide" : When facing predators such as jaguars and pythons, capybaras will quickly dive into the water to lie in ambush, making themselves harder to be detected.
Close relative: Capybara : Capybaras have a very similar close relative called the "small capybara" (scientific name Hydrochoerus isthmius ), which is smaller in size, has darker fur, and is distributed more in northern Central America.
The tail is very short : it looks like it has no tail, but it is actually just that the tail has degenerated to a very small size.
There were many more capybaras in ancient times : Throughout history, there have been many more species of capybaras, some of which are now extinct.
Capybara Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do capybaras attack humans? Are they dangerous to people?
Generally, they are not dangerous . Capybaras are herbivores, and humans are not on their diet. They are not known for aggression; their most common reaction is to flee or escape into the water. Defensive bites will only occur when they are forced, injured, or subjected to forced contact.
Why are we often seeing images of crocodiles not attacking capybaras?
In some regions, it is indeed possible to see capybaras and crocodiles coexisting at close range. This is usually related to the environment, food availability, and the predatory triggers for crocodiles. Sometimes, capybaras do not struggle or flee as violently as typical prey, making it less likely to trigger the "instantaneous pounce reflex" of certain crocodiles. However, this does not mean that capybaras are always safe; it only means that "relatively peaceful coexistence" may occur under specific circumstances.
How long can capybaras live?
In the wild : Commonly around 6 years old (highly affected by predation, disease, and environment).
Artificial breeding : Stable environment, fewer threats, and can potentially last 8–10 years or even longer.
Can capybaras be kept as pets?
Not recommended . Keeping capybaras is very difficult, usually involving legal permits and quarantine requirements. More importantly, they require:
Sufficiently large outdoor space (requiring a much wider range of activity than the average pet).
Maintain clean water for extended periods (for soaking, cooling, and avoiding pressure).
A stable supply of herbivores and the need for social living (isolated rearing can easily lead to stress).
Without these conditions, capybaras would find it difficult to achieve a good quality of life.
Why are capybaras so popular online?
The key to capybaras' popularity lies in their "contrast": despite their large size, they appear remarkably calm and friendly; their half-closed eyes and round, plump bodies easily evoke images of animated characters. Images of them relaxing in the water, letting birds perch on their bodies, and posing with various animals further reinforce their "friends to everyone" image, leading to their rapid spread on social media.
