Capybaras are the largest rodents on Earth. Learn about their history, behavior, lifecycle, and the conservation efforts that are being done to protect these furry creatures.

Capybaras are social animals that spend most of their time near lakes, ponds, and marshes across South America. Called “water pigs,” these champion swimmers are also the world’s largest rodent. Discover more about these friendly animals in All About South American Capybaras, one of 30 books in our Animals Around the World series. Each title is beautifully illustrated with large, eye-catching photographs, a map, and glossary.

The capybara is the neotropical mammal with the highest potential for production and domestication. Amongst the favorable characteristics for domestication we can list its high prolificacy, rapid growth rate, a herbivorous diet, social behavior and relative tameness. The genus (with only two species) is found from the Panama Canal to the north of Argentina on the east of the Andes. Chile is the only country in South America where the capybara is not found. The species is eaten all over its range, especially by poor, rural and traditional communities engaged in subsistence hunting. On the other hand, in large urban settlements wildlife is consumed by city dwellers as a delicacy. The sustainable management of capybara in the wild has been adopted by some South American countries, while others have encouraged capybara rearing in captivity.

In a hidden spot near the water of the Amazon rain forest, a mother capybara gives birth to her babies. So begins the life of the largest rodent on Earth! In this coming-of-age introduction to these fuzzy jungle babies, readers will see how a baby capybara spends its day, how it communicates with others, and how it will join a herd of other capybaras and stay with them for the rest of the animal’s life. The colorful interior spreads and gorgeous photos of capybara babies are sure to delight emergent readers.

A beautifully illustrated first guide to cute capybaras from expert Dr. Julia Mata, featuring stunning illustrations by Greco Westermann. You might know that capybaras are totally adorable and are related to guinea pigs, but there’s so much more to learn about these cuddly creatures! Discover how capybaras are perfectly adapted to swimming, why they like birds riding on their backs, and what makes them eat their own poop! You’ll also discover what it takes to become a capybara zoologist. Filled with simple science and plenty of animal facts, it’s a must for all capybara fans! Capybara (Young Zoologist) is part of an exciting series of collectable animal books from Neon Squid aiming to inspire the next generation of biologists and conservationists.

Are you ready to explore the world of capybaras? These adorable and fluffy creatures are the largest rodents in the world! In this book, you’ll discover: • Where and how these cheerful animals live • Get acquainted with their habits and daily routines • Uncover interesting facts about these fascinating creatures And vibrant illustrations will bring the world of capybaras to life. Get ready for some delightful discoveries!