Capybara

rodent · South America · semiaquatic · herbivore

World's biggest rodent. Capybaras are the largest living rodents on Earth, way bigger than any mouse or guinea pig. An adult can weigh up to 146 pounds and grow over 4 feet long.

Grass-eating swimmer. These gentle giants are herbivores that munch on grasses and aquatic plants all day long. They spend lots of time in and near water, from rivers and lakes to marshes and wetlands.

Found across South America. Capybaras live in almost every South American country except Chile, hanging out in savannas and dense forests. They prefer places where water and grassland are close together.

Super social animals. These rodents are very friendly and live together in groups of up to 100 individuals. They stick together for safety and spend time resting, eating, and playing in the water.

Built for water life. Capybaras have webbed feet that help them swim and dive underwater. They can even hold their breath for up to 5 minutes when hiding from danger.