Something a little different for you this week.The capybara is a native of South America, and when I visited the Biological park de Guia some years ago I took these photos of this very large rodent, which is the largest rodent in the world, but I never shared my photos until today. The capybara are social animals, often described as calm, relaxed, and compassionate, even adopting wild strays and abandoned young from other litters. They are very friendly, get along with humans and make friends with other animals as well. Crocodiles and capivaras are the best of friends and often can be seen swimming together, as the crocodile does not see the capivara as a threat because of it's calm disposition. The capybara has webbed feet to help it swim and escape from it's preditores. They live in herds and are herbivorous rodents, they are active at twilight, feeding on grass and aquatic vegetation. Their twilight activity is likely because capivaras have fewer predators to fear, almost all animals love them. They are however threatened by jaguars ocelots which steal their young, eagles, and the dreaded anaconda, but their main threat is from humans. They are hunted extensively for their meat and their hide,which is made into leather coats. It is a great shame that this kind and gentle creature should be hunted at all.
Monday, 29 September 2025
THE CAPYBARA Hydrochoerus hydrochoeris.
Their facial features are located towards the top of their large heads to help them see and breathe whilst
swimming. keeping their noses just above the waterline at the edge of the banks. They can also dive and stay under water for up to 5 mins at a time.
The gentle giant of rodents does not mind if other animals sit on its back.
Their pups drink milk for the first 16 weeks of their lives, suckling indiscriminately from any of the mothers in the group.
Linking to Saturday's Critters, and if you would like to check it out, click on the icon on the right sidebar. You won't be disappointed to see many different creatures from around the world. You too can join in by posting a pet, or any creature you like on Eileen's blog. "Saturday's Critters".
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27 comments:
It’s heartbreaking that such peaceful animals face danger from humans.
I have seen this wonderful animal in the wild, Sonjia, and rejoiced greatly. At least it is mostly hunted by indigenous people for food and is not subjected to the random slaughter that is often inflicted by “hunters” and “sports people” with their high-powered rifles and telescopic sights. I hope that all is well with you and that the brutal heat of summer is beginning to give way to cooler conditions. Hugs and kisses - David
Beautiful photos of the gorgeous Capybara!
These are some cute rodents. My daughter loves seeing them.
Looks like that it was enjoying the sunshine :-)
Dear Sonjia,
What beautiful photos of the capybara.
The information is also very interesting, I learned something new.
I wish you a wonderful week.
Greetings Irma
so precious and I have never seen one anywhere other than photos.. they sound wonderful to me..
An interesting looking animal. And pretty cute looking too.
I've long heard of the capybara but never seen one. He's awfully cute! Thanks for sharing this -- I learned something new today!
These photos of the capybara are wonderful, and it's so interesting to learn they are the largest rodent! I love that they are described as being so compassionate and friendly—it's amazing they make friends with so many different animals, even crocodiles!
www.melodyjacob.com
Dear Sonjia:)
Those are beautiful animals you show. I've only seen them on TV. They look very cute, and it's amazing that they can be friends with crocodiles!
Nature is incredible.
Warm hugs!
Marit
What an amazing animal, new to me, and fantastic photos as well.
Amalia
xo
such an interesting looking creature. i have never seen nor heard of this one. you photographed it well and i enjoyed the background information you provided!!
I've been wanting to see one. Hope they don't go instinct.
Hi Sonjia, I seem to be a little behind with your blog. We were in Spain for a week earlier in the month and I seem to have spent most evenings catching up with e-mails and sorting out butterfly records!
I enjoyed your Capybara post. They seem like lovely creatures. They remind me a little of the Coypu we used to see in the Camargue.
This animal looks so contemplative. Thank you for sharing.
rsrue.blogspot.com
Those capybaras are such a joy. I remember seeing them at a petting zoo years ago. Wonderful photos and fun to see. Thank you so much! Happy October to you :)
Son unos animales preciosos. Viví en Venezuela y allí hay muchos. Besos.
Thank you for sharing information about this gentle creature. How strange that I can't recall ever having heard of its existence. And how sad we humans tend to endanger every living thing.
Really enjoyed this! Capybaras are so adorable and social.
Capybaras ~ Thanks for the wonderful photos of this critter ~ unique to me for sure ~ hope it stays safe ~
an artist reflects
...Sonjia, a critter that I know little about, I should study up! I wish you a wonderful new week, be well.
Oh, so cute - hunted for meat? Oh. No. I think (!)... I saw an advent-calendar featuring them. If I see it again, if you like, I´ll let you know.
Hello Sonjia,
The Capybara is a cute critter! I enjoy all your photos too.
I hope they stay safe! I have only seen them here in zoos.
Thank you for linking up and sharing your post. Take care, have a great weekend.
Such a beautiful animal, thanks for sharing.
They look so cute and your pics are great. Have a great week, Sonjia.
Great shots of this lovely animal.
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