Crazy for Capybaras: 20 Must-Know Fun Facts!

In 1784, the Vatican declared capybaras as fish, permitting their consumption during Lent.As the largest rodents on Earth, capybaras bring tranquillity and charm to South America's lush landscapes.Explore the captivating world of capybaras with twenty intriguing facts, from their origins to their quirky habits. 1 Despite their appearance, capybaras are indeed rodents, distinguishing themselves as the largest extant members of this diverse family. 2 Two species of capybaras exist: the greater capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) and the lesser capybara (hydrochaeris isthmus). 3 Though visually similar, the lesser capybara boasts smaller proportions, distinct breeding habits, and lacks the sociability of its larger counterpart, making differentiation relatively straightforward. 4 Belonging to the Cavy family, capybaras share lineage with South American rodents like the domestic guinea pig. 5 Surprisingly, there is no standard term for a gathering of capybaras. Some suggest "meditation," reflecting their serene demeanour. 6 Capybaras thrive in social settings, typically forming groups ranging from ten to twenty individuals, though occasionally congregations of up to a hundred are observed. 7 Their name derives from the Tupi people of Brazil, who referred to them as ka’apiûara, signifying "one who eats slender leaves." 8 Following requests from Venezuelan priests, the Vatican's declaration in 1784 classified capybaras as fish due to their aquatic habits, permitting consumption during Lent. 9 In various South American countries, such as Brazil, Bolivia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Colombia, and Peru, one can encounter wild populations of greater capybaras. 10 While greater capybaras flourish in their natural habitats, their lesser relatives face threats stemming from extensive hunting and habitat destruction. 11 In the wild, capybaras typically grow to lengths of around 4.4 feet (134 centimetres) and weigh up to 146 pounds (66 kilograms). Remarkably, the heaviest recorded wild capybara tipped the scales at 201 pounds (91 kg)! 12 Resembling the hippos of South America, capybaras exhibit semiaquatic tendencies and delight in frolicking within muddy puddles. 13 Much like hippos, capybaras possess eyes, noses, and ears atop their heads, facilitating submerged observation of their surroundings. 14 A seemingly peculiar behaviour of capybaras involves consuming their feces in the morning, a practice attributed to the difficulty of digesting grass, with vital nutrients becoming accessible upon re-ingestion. 15 Capybaras showcase impressive breath-holding capabilities, capable of remaining submerged for up to five minutes, aided by their webbed feet, which contribute to their adept swimming skills. 16 In an act of unintentional rebellion, capybaras gained global attention when they infiltrated an opulent gated community in Buenos Aires, Argentina, inadvertently reclaiming territory that was once their native wetlands. 17 The captivating charm of capybaras extends to music, as evidenced by the song "Capybara" by the Russian band СтоЛичный Она-Нас (Capital She-Us), a tune that lingers in the mind indefinitely once heard. 18 In select U.S. states like Texas and Pennsylvania, owning capybaras as pets is legally permissible, albeit not necessarily advisable unless one possesses suitable accommodations, such as private swampland. 19 Renowned for their laid-back demeanour, capybaras attract a myriad of companions, including birds, monkeys, and turtles, which often seek refuge or enjoy leisurely rides atop these affable creatures. 20 Capybaras epitomize the art of carefree living, embracing social interactions, aquatic lifestyles, and even musical expressions, demonstrating the joys of a leisurely existence. Inspired by these furry exemplars, let us embrace life's rhythms at our own pace, following the lead of the capybaras in fostering moments of relaxation and camaraderie.