6 Fun Facts About Capybaras

Does your child squeal at the sight of an adorable capybara? Capybaras have quickly ascended to celebrity status in the animal world. Native to South America, capybaras are known for lounging in water, making friends and carrying a “chill” demeanor that has propelled them to stardom. These barrel-shaped creatures bring a major cuteness factor to STEM learning. Read on to inspire your child with fun facts about capybaras — animal friends who will be joining Camp Invention^® campers this summer!

1. World’s Largest Rodents

Did you know that capybaras are actually super-sized rodents? Though they were once thought to be a type of pig, capybaras are actually relatives of beavers and guinea pigs. In fact, they are the biggest rodents in the world! At full size, capybaras can grow up to 4 feet long and weigh between 60 and 174 lbs.

2. Hungry Herbivores 

As herbivores, capybaras love their veggies, eating between 6 and 8 pounds of grass, aquatic plants and fruit daily. Their sharp teeth never stop growing, making munching on high-fiber snacks a top priority. 

3. Semiaquatic Animals

Capybaras are semiaquatic animals, and they even have partially webbed feet that make them excellent swimmers! As they soak up the sun, capybaras stay hydrated in water. With habitats in savannas, rainforests and wetlands, capybaras spend their days in riverbeds, ponds, lakes or marshes.

4. Friendly Helpers

Gentle and friendly, capybaras live in herds and are known for their sociability. From turtles to birds, capybaras can be found giving other animals a ride on their back. Now that’s co-species collaboration at its best! 

5. Scientific (Yet Silly) Name

Less commonly known by their scientific name, capybaras are also called Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris, which translates to “water pig.” This adorable name is a reminder that even scientific names can have giggle-worthy meanings! 

6. A Camp Invention Connection 

Capybaras will play a special role in this summer’s brand-new Camp Invention program. In Fur-ensics^™, one of four all-new experiences, campers sharpen their detective skills as they investigate a series of mischievous pranks with Cap E. Bara and a fleet of robotic capybaras!

Inspired by the inner mechanics of their new animal friend, campers will create sleuthing gadgets to collect curious clues, solve the animal mystery and discover a surprising twist! Take a sneak peek at the fun adventure! 

Explore STEM With Capybaras This Summer

Capybaras are a perfect companion for exploring STEM! Spark your child’s imagination at Camp Invention this summer and sign up today!