Capybaras: The World’s Largest
Rodents
• Largest rodents in the world
• Native to South America
• Semi-aquatic and highly social animals
Habitat and Lifestyle
• Live near rivers, wetlands, and savannas
• Strong connection to water
• Adapted for land and aquatic life
Physical Adaptations
• Webbed feet for swimming
• Eyes, ears, nostrils on top of head
• Water-resistant fur
Social Behavior
• Live in groups
• Use vocalizations and body language
• Group living provides safety
Diet
• Herbivores
• Eat grasses and aquatic plants
• Practice coprophagy for nutrients
Dependence on Water
• Regulates body temperature
• Protection from predators
• Important for feeding and movement
Reproduction
• Breed during rainy season
• Pups born well-developed
• Group helps care for young
Ecological Role
• Control vegetation growth
• Support predator populations
• Considered a keystone species
Human Interaction
• Hunted in some regions
• Protected and admired in others
• Popular on social media
Threats and Conservation
• Habitat loss and pollution
• Climate change impacts
• Habitat protection is key

Capybaras_The_Worlds_Largest_Rodents.pptx