Capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are rodents that live in South America. They are very large, and are in fact the worlds largest rodent! They are closely related to guinea pigs.
Capybaras are very large. They are about the size of a full grown pig, and have a very stocky, cylindrical body. They are brown in color with strawlike fur. Their head is very rectangular, with their nose, eyes, and ears sitting on top of their head. This placement lets them see, hear, and smell, while keeping most of their body submerged under water. Their feet are also webbed to aid in swimming.
Length | Weight (adult) | Height | Lifespan | Gestation | Birthweight | Litter Size |
3-4 feet 100-300 centimeters |
60-180 pounds 30-80 kilograms Females are slightly larger |
1.5 feet 50 centimeters |
10 years in the wild 12 years in captivity |
5-6 months | 2-3 pounds 1-1.5 kilograms |
5 pups on average |