How much do you know about the capybara

9 Questions

A giant cavy rodent

Throughout all countries of South America except Chile

Grasses and aquatic plants, as well as fruit and tree bark

Up to 100 individuals

'One who eats slender leaves' or 'grass-eater'

Meat and hide, and for the grease from its thick fatty skin

Two types

Only in water

No, but their population is reduced in some areas due to hunting and competition for livestock

Study Notes

The Capybara: Largest Rodent in the World

The capybara is a giant cavy rodent native to South America and the largest living rodent in the world.
It is a highly social species and can be found in groups of up to 100 individuals, but usually live in groups of 10-20.
Capybaras inhabit savannas and dense forests, and live near bodies of water.
It is hunted for its meat and hide and for the grease from its thick fatty skin.
The name "capybara" is derived from Tupi ka'apiûara meaning "one who eats slender leaves" or "grass-eater."
Capybaras are semiaquatic mammals found throughout all countries of South America except Chile.
They are herbivores, grazing mainly on grasses and aquatic plants, as well as fruit and tree bark.
Capybaras are gregarious and have two types of scent glands.
They mate only in water and the females have the advantage and mating choice.
Capybaras are not considered a threatened species, but their population is reduced in some areas due to hunting and competition for livestock.
Capybaras have adapted well to urbanization in South America and can be found in many areas in zoos and parks.
They are farmed for meat and skins in South America and are occasionally kept as pets in the United States.