The World's Largest Rodent: Fun Facts About Capybaras
When you think of a rodent, you probably think of a small animal you could pick up and hold — but when it's a rodent that can weigh as much as an adult human, it might be a little difficult to carry!
Capybaras can grow up to 1.4 meters long and 61 centimeters tall, and weigh up to 65 kilograms, making them the world's largest rodent.
They're native to South America but you might see them in other parts of the world too — including in some hot springs at zoos and animal parks around Japan!
Here are some interesting facts about these rodents!
Capybaras are semi-aquatic animals, meaning they live both in water and on land. They can dive and hold their breath for up to five minutes, and they sometimes fall asleep in the water.
Their bodies are built for water, too. They have webbed feet like frogs, and their eyes, ears and nose are on the top of their head, which lets them keep their bodies under water while still seeing what's around them.
Their teeth never stop growing
Like other rodents, capybaras have two long front teeth that never stop growing. They're herbivores — meaning they only eat plants — so chewing things like grass and wood helps stop their teeth growing too big for their mouths!
Capybaras are social animals, and live with other capybaras in groups of up to 40.
They're also friendly with other animals. In fact, they're sometimes called "nature's chairs," because it's not uncommon to see another animal — like a bird or a monkey — sitting on them!
