Overview of the Capybara

The capybara is the largest living rodent in the world. Its name means “master of the grasses”. Capybaras have barrel-shaped bodies and short heads with reddish-brown fur. They can grow over 4 feet in length and weigh up to 140 pounds, with females weighing more than males. The largest record weight of a capybara was recorded as 232 pounds.

Capybaras have webbed feet, and are semi-aquatic creatures. They are great swimmers, and can survive underwater for up to five minutes. If required, a capybara can even sleep underwater, keeping its nose just above the waterline.

A now extinct slightly larger species of capybara used to live in North America. They now live in South America in forested ares near bodies of water, like lakes, rivers, swamps, ponds and marshes. They are herbivores, and consume grass, aquatic plants, fruit and tre bark. An adult capybara can eat 6 to 8 pounds every day. They are very picky eaters, with only 4 to 6 plant species making up three quarters of their diet. The capybara chews it food by grinding it back and forth instead of side to side. The capybara has a life span of 8 to 10 years, although the average in the wild is only 4 years. However, they can live for up 12 years in captivity.

About the Author
Jacob Maddox manages content for Wildlife Animals http://www.wildlife-animals.com an educational wildlife and animal website. Jacob also guest writes for Dog Pound http://www.dog-pound.net