Category: Herbivore
Location: Foot Safari
About Capybara
The Capybara is the largest rodent in the world, standing 2 feet (60 centimetres) tall - resembling a large guinea pig. They are found east of the Andes in Central and South America where these semi-aquatic rodents have adapted to the swampy boggy regions with slightly webbed feet. They can lift their eyes, ears, and nostrils out of the water and keep the rest of it underwater - just like a hippo!
At Knowsley Safari, we have Capybara on the Foot Safari on the Equatorial Trail that is also home to the Vicuña and Tapir.
Name: Capybara
Location: Capybara are found in South America. This species has a broad distribution that spans east of the Andes in Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, the Guyanas, all of Brazil, eastern Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay and northwestern and eastern Argentina.
Population: Unknown
Status: Least concern
Threats: Deforestation, habitat destruction, and illegal poaching.
Fun facts about Capybara
Before visiting these giant rodents here at Knowsley Safari, brush up on some fun Capybara facts!
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A adult capybara can eat up to 8 pounds of grass per day. They use their long sharp teeth to graze on grass and water plants.
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Their main natural predator is the jaguar.
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Capybara will jump and hide in water when threatened. They have the ability to hold their breath under water for up to 5 minutes.
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They are a vocal species that communicate through a number of noises such as barks and chirps.
Meet our Capybara
Where to see the Capybara at Knowsley Safari
Stroll past our Capybara down on the Foot Safari. They live with the Vicuña and Tapir on the Equatorial Trail.