Capybara is a semi aquatic rodent of South America. It weighs a 100 pounds, is 4 feet long and stands 2 feet tall at the shoulders. It looks like an unusual cross between a guinea pig and hippopotamus!

Capybaras live in large groups along the river banks. They graze peacefully the lush green grass and the aquatic vegetation. They love to bask in the sunshine. At the slightest hint of a danger, they dash into the water again! Pumas and Jaguars are their worst enemies.

Capybaras living in the colder regions of South America have long shaggy coats. The typical capybara has short pale hair which is very coarse too! It has a deep face, small ears, a tail and slightly webbed feet to suit the life in water.

A large scent gland is right in the middle on the top of its nose. Capybaras can become good and friendly pets. Their life span is ten years. They can communicate through various clicks, squeaks and grunts. The extinct capybaras were much bigger in size than the ones existing now.

Visalakshi Ramani