Capybaras: The Giant Rodents Taking the Internet by Storm
Crazy for capybaras? These giant rodents may not be the most well-known animal, but they’re quickly becoming internet sensations. With their adorable faces and gentle personalities, it’s no wonder they’re stealing hearts everywhere. These days, it seems people can’t get enough of everything capybara. Virtually everyone wants to know where do capybaras live? What do capybaras eat? Do they make good pets? If you’re one of the few people who’s not yet familiar with capybaras, let us introduce you to these giant, fluffy, and incredibly cute creatures!
What exactly is a capybara?
These furry creatures are native to South America and can grow up to 4 feet long and weigh over 100 pounds. Despite their size, they’re actually very docile and are often kept as pets. In fact, they’re known for being one of the most friendly and social animals in the rodent family.
One of the best things about capybaras is their love for water. They’re excellent swimmers and can often be found lounging in ponds and rivers. In fact, they’re so comfortable in the water that they’ve been known to use it as a form of self-defense against predators. They can stay underwater for up to five minutes, so they can use it as a way to escape from predators or simply to cool off.
Capybaras are also known for their unique social bonds. They live in large groups and are incredibly loyal to their family and friends. They’ll even groom each other and cuddle up close for warmth. It’s not uncommon to see a group of capybaras lying in a pile, looking like the ultimate snuggle buddies. But perhaps the most endearing thing about capybaras is their facial expressions. With their big, expressive eyes and cute, button noses, they always seem to be smiling. It’s hard not to fall in love with these giant rodents.
Many people wonder if capybaras make good pets. The answer is yes, they can make great pets for the right person. That being said, we don’t encourage everyone to go out and get one! Capybaras are incredibly social animals and thrive on human companionship. Capybaras are also very peaceful creatures. They’re herbivores and spend most of their time grazing on grass and aquatic plants. They’re not aggressive towards humans or other animals, and they’re even known to be friendly with other animals, like dogs and cats.
Capybaras are also very intelligent, so they can be trained to do tricks and obey commands. However, it’s important to remember that they are still wild animals, and they have specific needs that must be met. They require a large enclosure with plenty of room to swim and run around. They also need a diet that mimics their natural habitat, and regular veterinary care is a must. Additionally, it is illegal to own a capybara in some states and cities, so it’s important to check your local laws before considering getting one as a pet.
Finally, it’s important to remember capybaras are considered exotic pets, so they will need specialized veterinary care.
Disclaimer: Not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. If you think your pet has a medical emergency, call or visit your veterinarian or your local veterinary emergency hospital immediately.
FAQs
Many people wonder if capybaras make good pets. The answer is yes, they can make great pets for the right person. That being said, we don't encourage everyone to go out and get one! Capybaras are incredibly social animals and thrive on human companionship.
How much does a pet capybara cost? ›
The cost of these creatures runs about $1,000 to $3,000. Females are usually more expensive. Keep in mind, you have to buy at least two. First, make sure there is an exotics veterinarian in your area who has experience treating large rodents like capybaras.
Can you own a capybara in Arizona? ›
The following states generally allow people to keep capybaras as pets: Arizona, Arkansas, Texas, Florida, Indiana, Nevada, Washington, North Carolina, Tennessee; I have also been told parts of New York state. You will still need to get a licence/permit to keep a capybara as a pet in most of the states.
How old is the oldest capybara? ›
One captive specimen lived for 15.1 years [0671].
Why do you need 2 capybaras? ›
Capybaras are social creatures who rely on interaction with their species for their physical and psychological well-being. You must adopt more than one capybara to keep these animals healthy and happy.
Is it safe to own a capybara? ›
While capybaras are docile animals that don't tend to bite humans, they do have long, sharp teeth that can seriously injure you if they feel threatened. And to the internet's delight, capybaras are often known to be friendly with other animals, like dogs and cats.
How long do capybaras live? ›
During the dry season, when fresh grasses and water plants dry up, a capybara will eat reeds, grains, melons and squashes. Up to 10 years in the wild, up to 12 years in captivity.
Can capybaras bite? ›
Capybaras are docile animals; however, their large rodent incisive teeth could cause serious injury. Localized care, antibiotic therapy when necessary, careful examination of the structures, tetanus and rabies immunization as indicated, and follow-up are recommended for wild animal bites.
How big do capybaras get? ›
Size and Weight: Capybaras are the largest rodent species. An adult capybara weighs 60 to 174 pounds, depending on the sex. They measure 3.2 to 4.2 feet in length and measure 1.6 to 2 feet at shoulder height.
What eats capybaras? ›
Jaguars, pumas and caimans are all animals that eat the capybara. Smaller sized and children capybaras are a go to snack for boa constrictors, small cats(as in wild cats) and vultures. The predators are all dependent on the time of day and the season.
Meet the capybara (Hydrocho*rus hydrochaeris), the largest rodent in the world! Native to South America, you can find capybaras scampering by the edges of mucky marshes, swimming through jungle ponds, and snacking in flooded grasslands.
Will capybaras go extinct? ›
Conservation and human interaction
Capybaras are not considered a threatened species; their population is stable throughout most of their South American range, though in some areas hunting has reduced their numbers.
Are capybaras friendly pets? ›
Despite their size, they're actually very docile and are often kept as pets. In fact, they're known for being one of the most friendly and social animals in the rodent family. One of the best things about capybaras is their love for water. They're excellent swimmers and can often be found lounging in ponds and rivers.
How long do capybaras live as pets? ›
During the dry season, when fresh grasses and water plants dry up, a capybara will eat reeds, grains, melons and squashes. Up to 10 years in the wild, up to 12 years in captivity.
How many capybaras are left? ›
Download Table Data
| Country | Capybara Population |
|---|
| Brazil | 1,200,000 |
| Colombia | 800,000 |
| Venezuela | 600,000 |
| Bolivia | 400,000 |
5 more rows
