Page 24 - World of Animals - Issue #41

Capybara

Young capybaras are not
confident swimmers, so
they are heavily reliant on “They are able to dive with ease, and
their mothers
submerge themselves underwater
They are able to for as long as five minutes”

sleep underwater

Capybaras are adapted to their semi-aquatic life Rodent ancestors
Capybaras spend a lot of time in and around ponds,
lakes and rivers, rarely venturing more than 500 Capybaras are not the largest rodents to ever walk the Earth.
metres (547 yards) away. Their webbed feet help to Josephoartigasia monesi was discovered in 1987 and scientifically
make them great swimmers, while their claws allow described 21 years later. It is said to have lived from about two to four
them to clamber up slippery riverbanks. They are also million years ago, and could grow to a height of 1.5 metres (five feet).
able to dive with the utmost of ease, and submerge Capybaras are smaller, but still far larger than rats and guinea pigs.
themselves underwater for as long as five minutes,
their ears fixed against their heads to keep the water
out. This enables them to hide from view if there are
predators around or if they feel threatened in any way.
The position of their facial features make them very
effective while they are in the water. Since their eyes, Josephoartigasia monesi
ears and nostrils are positioned close to the top of
© Shutterstock; Thinkstock; NaturePL see, hear and breathe without any problems. They Large capybara
their head, they can remain close to the surface and
tend to sleep underwater because it offers a
sense of protection, while also ensuring they
can keep cool in the heat. Capybaras also mate in the
water, and when it’s time to leave, their short, thin fur
ensures they are able to dry off very quickly.

24

020-024_Capybara Worlds largest rodent.indd 24 30/11/2016 17:08