Saturday 31 March 2012

Capybara | Facts and Photos 2012


Capybara is the largest of all living rodents. In the language of the Guarani Indians, capybara means “master of the grasses.” Capybaras live close to the water in groups of about 20. They are excellent swimmers and divers. If they sense danger, they will dive into the water and hide, and they can stay underwater for five minutes. If necessary they can even sleep underwater with only their noses poking out. Capybaras communicate with a variety of sounds including soft whimpers, clicking noises, purring and barking. All females within the group help care for and nurse the young.


Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) is the largest extant rodent in the world. Its closest relatives are agouti, chinchillas, coyphillas, and guinea pigs. Native to South America, the capybara inhabits savannas and dense forests, and lives near waters. It is a very gregarious species, and can in groups as large as 100 individuals are found, but usually live in groups of 10-20 people. The capybara is not an endangered species even though it is hunted for their meat and skin. The capybara and the lower part of the subfamily Hydrochoerinae together with the rock guinea pigs. The living capybaras and their extinct relatives were previously classified within the family.
 Capybara
 Capybara
 Capybara
Capybara

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