If you have ever heard of Capybaras, chances are that you know that these cute little creatures are from South America. But Capybara Facts aren’t just about where they live; their behavior too is fascinating. These speedy, stream-dwelling rodents are nocturnal and semi-aquatic animals. They spend most of the day hiding in underground burrows or hollow tree stumps.
Aside from being a nocturnal animal, they are also semi-aquatic and they like to stay near water. The name “Capybara” comes from the word “capa vya” which means “tufted hair” in the indigenous Guaraní language. Their natural wet fur provides them with extra protection against biting insects during cold weather and makes them resistant to arid conditions during summer (when their wet fur keeps them cool). Their wet fur even acts as an insulating layer of fat; keeping them warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather.
Fun Facts About Capybaras:
Fur Is Like Wires
on Their Feet
Capybaras have a tough-looking top coat, but underneath it lies a dense layer of short, coarse hair. Like many mammals, Capybaras have fur that acts as a protective barrier against the elements and UV rays. But their dense undercoat also contains tiny wires that act like muscles to help them swim and grip on slippery surfaces. The hairs are so fine that they can’t be seen without a microscope.
Don�t Like To Be Hugged
Capybaras are social animals. In the wild, they often live in groups of up to 2-3 adults and their young together.
These animals are very friendly towards humans; and will often approach people hand-treaters or willingly take food from their hands. Capybaras are also known for being very playful and curious. They usually like to be around humans, but they do not like to be petted. When a Capybara is harmed during handling, it will drop its head between its front legs and curl up into a ball while making a high-pitched squealing noise. If a capybara is grabbed by the nape of the neck, it can inflict injuries by twisting its body around, biting the hand that holds it, or kicking backwards. If a capybara feels threatened, it may attack with its incisors or bite an attacker’s face when provoked.
Fun Facts About Capybaras:
Social Animals
Capybaras are social animals. They live in herds of up to 50 individuals, but they typically form small groups of between 2 and 8 members.
Their Teeth Grow Continuously?
Capybaras are the largest rodents on earth, eating up to 40% of their body weight each day. Their teeth grow continuously throughout their lives, which is why they have a hard time chewing their food (their teeth don’t get bigger like a human’s). Capybara Facts:
They have one less rib than humans do.
Their heart rate is lower than that of humans and dogs.
Their kidneys are four times smaller than those of a human.
Their brain weighs two-thirds that of a human brain.
Pregnant capybaras weigh about 45 pounds during gestation and give birth once every 18 months.
