Capybara
Scientific name: Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris
Giant rodent, extremely social, always associated with aquatic areas.
Quick facts
- Approximate size100–130 cm
- Average weight35–65 kg
- Life expectancy6–10 years
- ActivityCrepuscular
Basic information
- Home: inhabits riverbanks, lagoons and swamps with abundant vegetation.
- Food: herbivore, diet based on grasses, aquatic plants and some crops.
- Sexual dimorphism: not very marked; females are usually slightly larger than males.
- Predators: large felines, caimans and anacondas; in some areas, also dogs and humans.
Life in the wild
What the capybara is like in its natural environment and what role it plays in freshwater ecosystems.
Species overview
The capybara is a large South American rodent that lives in social groups near rivers, lagoons and swamps. It spends much of its time resting or feeding on the banks.
Natural habitat
Inhabits flooded savannas, wetland areas and slow-flowing river margins. Needs constant access to water to regulate temperature and escape from predators.
Social behavior
Extremely social: usually lives in groups of 10 to 20 individuals, although larger aggregations can form. Communication includes vocalizations, scent and mutual grooming behavior.
Special traits
Has partially webbed feet and eyes, ears and nose in a high position, allowing it to swim with great skill and keep its head above water while the body remains submerged.
Conservation and threats
Wild populations are affected by habitat loss and hunting in some regions, although the species is generally considered of least concern. Maintaining healthy wetlands is key to its future.
Curiosities
Striking facts about the capybara that show how special it is within South American wetlands.
- It is the largest rodent in the world: some individuals exceed 60 kg.
- Despite its size, it is an excellent swimmer and can stay submerged for several minutes.
- Its coarse fur helps it dry quickly after leaving the water.
- It makes sounds like whistles, grunts and soft barks to communicate with the group.
Welfare profile
Visual summary of the most critical aspects for the welfare of this species in captivity.
Space needsVery high
Requires large enclosures with permanent access to a large water area. Reduced spaces cause stress, conflicts and health problems.
Social complexityVery high
It is a strongly social species. Keeping isolated individuals is considered inadequate for their welfare and should only occur in clinical or exceptional situations.
Handling and specializationCritical
Responsible maintenance is reserved for centers with specialized staff (zoos, reserves or sanctuaries). Requires knowledge in handling large herbivores and wildlife veterinary care.
Capybara in captivity
Guidance information focused on authorized centers. Not recommended for keeping as a "domestic pet".
⚠️ In many countries, keeping capybaras is regulated or prohibited. Their size, social needs and space requirements make them only suitable for professional facilities or specialized sanctuaries.
Suitable facilities
Enclosures should combine wide meadows with direct access to large lagoons or pools. The substrate should allow them to walk and lie down comfortably, avoiding hard or slippery floors.
Feeding in responsible centers
- Diet based on quality forage (hay, fresh grass).
- Supplemented with vegetables and specific feed for herbivores.
- Continuous access to clean water is essential.
Social group
Should be kept in stable groups, respecting the natural social structure. It is essential to avoid isolation and plan the group composition well to reduce conflicts.
Welfare and health
They need environmental enrichment, regular veterinary check-ups and weight control. Chronic stress can manifest in stereotyped behaviors or dermatological problems.
This information is for educational purposes. The priority should always be the conservation of natural ecosystems and the welfare of the animals that live in them.