Capybara

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Scientific Name: Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris

 Where They Live

Capybaras are native to South America, especially in countries like:

• Brazil

• Venezuela

• Colombia

• Argentina

• Peru

They live near rivers, lakes, swamps, and flooded savannas — anywhere there’s water.

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  Fun Facts

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• Capybaras are the largest rodents in the world!

• They are excellent swimmers and can even hold their breath for up to 5 minutes underwater.

• Capybaras are highly social and often live in groups of 10–20.

• Birds like to perch on capybaras to eat bugs off their backs—it's a win-win!

• Their front teeth never stop growing, just like other rodents.

       Endangered Status

Capybaras are currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
They have a stable population in the wild, but they do face threats in some areas from:

• Habitat destruction

• Illegal hunting for their meat and hide