Capybara: 5 Curious Facts You Need to Know

Nature is a fascinating world, and among the most peculiar animals of the Peruvian jungle we find the capybara, also known as capybara. This unique rodent, considered the largest in the world, inhabits regions such as the Tambopata National Reserve and around your hotel in Puerto Maldonado, offering travelers a unique experience in the Peruvian Amazon. If you plan to explore these areas and enjoy close contact with the local wildlife, this article will prepare you with everything you need to know about the capybara.

What is a capybara?

The capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) is a herbivorous mammal that belongs to the rodent family. Their appearance is reminiscent of a giant guinea pig, as they can grow up to 1.30 meters long and weigh more than 60 kilograms. Their physiognomy is adapted for a semi-aquatic life, with webbed feet that allow them to swim easily and a dense fur that protects them from water and weather.

They are sociable animals, living in groups that can include 10 to 20 individuals. Their peaceful nature and curious behavior make them a favorite among jungle visitors.

Where do capybaras live?

Capybaras inhabit the humid and tropical zones of South America. In Peru, they are found mainly in the Tambopata National Reservea natural jewel located near Puerto Maldonadoideal for ecotourism lovers. Here, they share their habitat with other species of the Amazonian fauna such as macaws, jaguars, and caimans. caimans.

This environment provides them with rivers, lakes and wetlands essential for their survival. It is common to see them resting on the banks or swimming peacefully while foraging for food.

If you visit Puerto Maldonado and are staying in a hotel in Puerto Maldonadoyou might have the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat.

How do capybaras reproduce?

The reproductive cycle of capybaras is fascinating. These animals reach sexual maturity between 12 and 18 months of age. Females have a gestation that lasts between 130 and 150 days, giving birth to litters of 2 to 8 young, which are born fully developed and ready to move on their own.

Water plays a crucial role in the reproduction process, as capybaras prefer to mate in lakes or rivers to ensure their safety. In addition, their group life provides them with protection, as the males usually guard the environment while the females take care of the young.

5 Curious facts about capybaras

1. They are the largest rodents in the world.

The capybara is unrivaled in size within the rodent family. Its imposing body is perfectly designed to survive in its aquatic habitat.

2. They are excellent swimmers

Thanks to their webbed feet, capybaras move quickly through the water. This not only allows them to escape from predators, but also to access their favorite food: aquatic plants.

3. They have a varied herbivorous diet.

Capybaras feed on grasses, fruits and tree bark. Although they prefer fresh grasses, they can also consume aquatic plants, which provide them with the nutrients necessary for their survival.

4. They communicate with peculiar sounds

These animals emit a variety of sounds, from growls to whistles to soft barks, which they use to communicate with each other. Each sound has a specific meaning, such as warning of danger or calling their young.

5. They are social animals par excellence

Living in groups is fundamental for capybaras. This not only gives them protection from predators, but also the opportunity to interact and collaborate in the care of their young.

What do capybaras eat?

The diet of capybaras is completely herbivorous. They feed mainly on:

• Fresh and tender grasses.
• Aquatic plants found in rivers and lakes.
• Fruits and berries that fall from the trees.
• Bark and leaves from nearby bushes.

This fiber-rich diet is key to their digestive health, and they often spend many hours a day eating to maintain their energy and well-being.

The capybara is a fascinating animal that deserves all our attention and care. Its adaptability, social behavior and role in the Amazonian ecosystems make it a unique species. If you are planning to visit the Peruvian jungle. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet these creatures in their natural habitat. Book now at our hotel in Puerto Maldonado and live an unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Peruvian Amazon

. Prepárate para explorar la Reserva Nacional Tambopata y descubrir todo lo que la naturaleza tiene para ofrecer. ¡Te esperamos!