Mammals
Capybara
Hydrochoerus hydrochaerisConservation statusLeast Concern
DietRiverbank grasses and water plants
Lifespan8-10 years
Size and weightUp to about 70 kg
A body shaped like a barrel, on quite long legs, with a square head. It lives in family groups by the water.
Eye, ear and nostril in a line
What makes it specialThe eyes, ears and nostrils sit in one line on top of the head. So it can see and breathe while its whole body is in the water.
Surprising factCan sleep in the water with only its nose out.
PopulationMillions of animals in South America.
Banks of the Napo River and the smaller rivers that flow into it