One look into the large, beady eyes of this "water hog," and you are sure to fall in love. Videos of capybaras being their natural selves have been sweeping the internet, making this doz-sized rodent everyone's favorite animal.
What are Capybaras?
The Hydrochoerus hyrdrochaeris or capybaras are herbivorous mammals that live up to 7 years in the wild. These rodents can weigh anywhere between 77 to 143 pounds and grow up to 4.6 feet long.
According to National Geographic, these semi-aquatic mammals can be found mostly throughout northern and central South America as the biggest rodent on the Earth. However, a small invasive herd has been spotted in Florida.
You'll easily be able to identify a capybara when you come across a seemingly large guinea pig. They have stout bodies, no tails, rectangular heads, and little ears, which is partly responsible for their internet fame.
Known for various names, the word 'capybara' is derived from their Tupi name that roughly translates to "the one who easts slender leaves," while their Latin name means "water hog."
Capybaras love water just like your labrador. They have webbed feet that help them swim. Although these rodents can't stay underwater like their distant relatives, capybaras stay underwater with their noses sticking out for a prolonged period of time. They spend a lot of time in the water to eat vegetation and evading predators.
You may be thinking to yourself that these harmless and somewhat docile mammals are the perfect pets, especially since they're related to our beloved guinea pigs. Although you can easily spot capybara in South America, they are not domestic pets.
Capybaras Across the Globe
With their undeniable charm and cuteness, it's no wonder that we can't get enough of these adorable water hogs.
They have been a popular attraction in zoos in Japan. Izu Shaboten Zoo is credited as the first zoo to help its resident capybaras participate in a solstice ritual where whole yuzus are placed in onsens. The popular attraction has been a popular practice in various zoos throughout Japan.
Central California, 2011, capybaras were spotted when they infiltrated a golf course chasing dogs and scaring resident horses. Despite capybaras being illegal pets, the commotion is thought to be caused by an escaped capybara pet.
Capybaras are well known for their docile demeanor. The preternaturally chill rodents rarely get their hackles up. But their social structures are incredibly cooperative. Males might show a bit of aggression towards each other, but females often take care of each other's offspring.
No matter how incredibly irresistible these charming dog-sized rodents may be, their home is in the wild. Their rising popularity, especially on the internet, is causing some concern from experts that some may resort to illegally domesticating the water hogs. For now, the best way to get your daily fill of capybara cuteness is to go to a zoo or watch their videos online.
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