Capybara

Capybara, also known as carpincho, the largest living rodent. The capybara grows to a length of about 1 m (about 3 ft), weighs about 45 kg (about 100 lb), is semiaquatic in its habits, and is a vegetarian. The rodent runs clumsily because of slightly webbed feet, but swims well and can remain underwater for several minutes. A plump animal, with coarse, thin, brownish hair, the capybara is easily tamed. It lives in pairs or families along the banks of rivers and lakes in South America.

Scientific classification: The capybara makes up the family Hydrochaeridae. It is classified as Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris.

Capybara Microsoft® Encarta® Encyclopedia 2001. © 1993-2000 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.