[Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris]
Habitat: Semi-aquatic, forests
Length: 4.3’
Weight: Up to 145 lbs
Average Lifespan: 10 years
Gestation Period: 130 – 150 days
Number of Young: 2-8
Conservation Status: Least Concern
– Capybaras can survive under water for up to five minutes.
– They are usually found in groups, between 10 and 30 controlled by a dominant male.
– They are herbivores, mainly grazing on grass.
– They communicate through a combination of scent and sound.
– Their predators are jaguar, puma, ocelot, eagle and caiman and is the preferred prey of the anaconda.
– They are also hunted for their meat and pelt.