Notes from Papaw: Capybaras!

This week, let’s have some fun. Since everyone seems to be fascinated with capybaras, I figured Papaw, The Science Teacher, would tell you more about them.

Capybaras are the largest rodent in the world. They are twice the size of a beaver! They have reddish-brown fur on top and yellowish-brown fur underneath. They live in the jungle waterways of South America like in the Amazon rain forest. Their scientific name is Hydrochorerus hydrochaeris which means “water hog”. They can be 4 feet long and weight 140 lbs. That’s more than you! They are related to guinea pigs but much bigger. They are said to be “semi-aquatic” which is a big word for saying they like the land and the water. They are very good swimmers and can hold their breath under water for up to 5 minutes. They can even sleep in the water with just their nose sticking out. Copys have partially webbed feet that help them paddle around. They like to hang out by the shore eating plants that grow on the riverbanks and in the water. That makes them an herbivore (plant eater). Their teeth are special and don’t stop growing! This means they have to continually chew on plants and grasses to keep them shorter and sharp. If they are not eating, they like to spend the day wallowing in the mud. No wonder they are called water hogs!

Capybaras like to hang out in groups and can live to be 8-10 years old. They have to be really careful while they are wallowing, playing or eating. Jaguars, pumas, green anacondas, and even caimans (a type of small alligator) are always looking to find one for lunch! Did you know that they can even bark almost like a dog if they see a predator? Mom’s bark to their little ones to call them. “Bark, bark” come back, it’s time for dinner!

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/cabybara-facts

Here’s a link to the Capybara Song. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Pj-YEQbojk&t=12s