Brazil
Capybara
Meet the capybara! This gentle giant is the largest rodent on Earth, splashing through the rivers and wetlands of the Pantanal in Brazil and getting along with just about every animal it meets.
Why is it special?
The capybara is the largest rodent in the world, growing much bigger than any mouse, rat, or squirrel.
It is famous for being calm and friendly, often seen relaxing peacefully alongside birds, turtles, and even other animals.
How does it live?
Capybaras live near rivers, lakes, and marshes, especially in the Pantanal, the world's largest tropical wetland.
They are excellent swimmers with webbed feet, and they can stay underwater for several minutes to hide from predators.
Amazing facts
A capybara can grow to be over 4 feet (1.2 meters) long and weigh as much as 150 pounds (65 kilograms).
Capybaras are very social and usually live in groups of 10 to 20, sometimes even more.
Quick facts
- A capybara can grow to be over 4 feet (1.2 meters) long and weigh as much as 150 pounds (65 kilograms).
- Capybaras are very social and usually live in groups of 10 to 20, sometimes even more.
- They can hold their breath underwater for about 5 minutes to stay safe from predators like jaguars.
- Baby capybaras can start nibbling on grass just a few days after they are born.