Introduction to the Capybara
The capybara, native to South America, gets its name from an indigenous term meaning 'Master of the Plains'. This large rodent is primarily found in Paraguay and southern Brazil, thriving in various wetland environments.
Biological Classification
Scientific Name: Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Rodentia
Family: Hydrochaeridae
Genus: Hydrochoerus
Physical Characteristics and Habitat
Capybaras are impressively sized, measuring between 100 to 130 cm and weighing anywhere from 27 to 79 kg. They typically live for about 8 to 10 years in the wild. These herbivores primarily feed on grasses, aquatic plants, and occasionally fruits. Capybaras are nocturnal creatures, most active in the evening or at night, and they favor environments like lakes, rivers, swamps, and ponds.
Behavior and Social Structure
Known as the largest rodent species, capybaras are adept in both water and land environments, particularly excelling in swimming and diving. While they usually stay on land, they may escape into water to evade predators. Capybaras live in social groups, typically organized in family units with a clear social hierarchy. A dominant male leads the group, which includes multiple females, their offspring, and subordinate males. These groups can consist of up to 20 members.
Reproduction
Capybaras reach sexual maturity at around 15 months of age. Although they can breed year-round, in countries like Venezuela and Argentina, reproduction often coincides with the start of the rainy season. Capybaras usually give birth once a year, with an average litter size of five pups. The nursing period lasts approximately 16 weeks.
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