Capybara biological profile and habitat details

The capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) is the largest living rodent. In the wild, adults typically weigh between 35 and 66 kilograms and measure between 1.06 and 1.34 meters in length. In captivity, they can reach weights of up to 100 kilograms.

Native to much of South America, including Colombia, Venezuela, Uruguay, and Argentina, these animals are always found near water. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the species as least concern.

Capybaras belong to the same family as guinea pigs and maras, with the moco (Kerodon) being their closest living relative. Their natural predators include jaguars, green anacondas, caimans, and humans.