Capybara

Master of the Grasses

The capybara, sometimes referred to by its scientific name of Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris, is the largest rodent on Earth. It primarily lives in South America, but can be found in zoos all over the world. It is closely related to guinea pigs, which is easier to see in younger capybaras. It is a highly social animal, and can be found in groups as large as 100. Though, groups of up to 10 are more common.


Etymology

The name capybara is derived from the Tupi word ka'apiûara. Tupi is a now extinct language which was used by the Tupi people living in Brazil. Translated, this word means 'one who eats slender leaves' or 'grass-eater'.
Its scientific name, Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris, is derived from the Greek words hydro meaning 'water' and choiros meaning 'pig'. So one could also call them 'water pigs'. This is what the German language does, as the Germans call the capybara Wasserschwein, meaning 'water swine'.


Habitat

Capybaras inhabit diverse ecosystems across South America, where they have adapted to both land and water environments. The charismatic creatures are most commonly found in wetlands, such as marshes, swamps, and along the banks of rivers, lakes, and ponds.

Their ideal habitat consists of abundant vegetation, including grasses, aquatic plants, and shrubs, which provide them with food and cover. Capybaras are herbivores and graze on a variety of plants, including grasses, reeds, and aquatic vegetation. They have specialized digestive systems that allow them to efficiently extract nutrients from tough and fibrous plant material.

A capybara walking on grass near water Water is a vital component of their habitat as capybaras are semi-aquatic animals. They are excellent swimmers and spend a significant amount of time in the water, where they find refuge from predators, regulate their body temperature, and search for food. They have partially webbed feet, which aid in swimming and navigating through aquatic environments.

Capybaras are social animals and often live in small groups known as troops or herds. These groups can consist of several individuals, ranging from a few individuals to over 100. The troops establish territories that include both land and water areas, ensuring access to food and suitable breeding sites.

Their habitat also supports a diverse array of other wildlife. Capybaras play a crucial role in the ecosystem as a food source for predators, such as jaguars, caimans, and anacondas. Additionally, their grazing behavior helps maintain the balance of vegetation and supports a healthy wetland ecosystem.


Diet

Capybaras are herbivores with a diverse and adaptable diet. Their primary food sources include grasses, aquatic plants, and shrubs. They graze on a variety of vegetation, both on land and in water, to fulfill their dietary needs.

Capybaras are known to be selective grazers, carefully choosing the most nutritious parts of plants. They use their sharp incisors to crop grasses close to the ground, maximizing their foraging efficiency. Their digestive systems are specialized for breaking down tough and fibrous plant material, allowing them to extract as many nutrients as possible from their vegetarian diet.

This herbivorous diet not only sustains capybaras but also has significant ecological implications. Capybaras contribute to seed dispersal by consuming fruits and vegetation, aiding in the regeneration of plant species and maintaining the biodiversity of their habitats. Furthermore, their grazing behavior can influence the structure and composition of plant communities, shaping vegetation dynamics in their environment.


Dangers

One of the primary dangers capybaras face is habitat loss. As human populations expand and urban areas sprawl, their natural habitats, which include marshes, swamps, and grassy plains near bodies of water, are being destroyed or fragmented. Deforestation, agriculture, and infrastructure development result in the loss of vital feeding and breeding grounds for capybaras, pushing them into smaller and isolated areas. This habitat loss leads to increased competition for resources, limited genetic diversity, and reduced overall population numbers.

Additionally, capybaras face the threats of hunting and poaching. In some regions, they are hunted for their meat and skin. Their meat is considered a delicacy in some South American countries, and their hides are used for various purposes. Although hunting them is often illegal, it still persists in certain areas, contributing to a decline in capybara populations. Efforts to enforce regulations and promote sustainable practices are crucial for their protection.


Where can I see a capybara?

There's a lot of places where you can see capybaras. We've made an extensive list of zoos and parks where you can see capybaras. You can find it here.


Media

There is a lot of media attention for the capybara, for it is a very lovable creature. Owners of the capybara often proudly post pictures of it on Instagram. Here's a few accounts to enjoy: