Capybara
A species of Capybaras Scientific name : Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris Genus : Capybaras
Capybara, A species of Capybaras
Scientific name: Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris
Genus: Capybaras
Content
Description General Info
Description
The capybara or capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) is a species of mammal from the guinea pig family (Caviidae). Together with the Panama capybara (Hydrochoerus isthmius) it forms the genus Hydrochoerus and is the largest rodent living today. It inhabits moist regions in South America and is ideally adapted to its semi-aquatic (partly in water) lifestyle.
General Info
Lifespan
8-10 years
Diet
Capybara is primary a herbivore, with a diet consisting predominantly of aquatic vegetation like grasses and reeds. Its enlarged hind gut efficiently digests fibrous plant material, enabling it to thrive in its habitat. It may also consume fruit and tree bark to supplement its diet.
Appearance
Capybara is a large, semi-aquatic rodent with a heavy-set body, round head, and short legs. Its fur is dense, coarse, and reddish-brown in color. The most distinctive feature of this animal is its small eyes and partially webbed feet, adapted for a life in water. There are no pronounced differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Capybara are highly social animals, living in bands of up to 20 members in the wild. Known for their aquatic habits, they are adept swimmers, using its webbed feet and evading predators by submerging for several minutes. Predominantly herbivorous, they primarily graze near water bodies. Their vocal communications, including clicks, purrs, barks and whistles underscore complex social interactions.
Population
Stable
