Capybara

Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris

RANGE Central and South America

HABITAT Dense vegetation surrounding lakes, rivers, swamps, marshes, and ponds

DIET Mainly grasses and aquatic plants

The capybara is the world's largest rodent. Like all rodents, capybara's two front teeth continuously grow throughout their life.

The capybara's eyes, nostrils and ears are located near the top of the head, an adaptation for their semi-aquatic life. They are excellent divers and swimmers with partially webbed toes.

It can stay underwater for up to five minutes without taking a breath and can sleep underwater with its nose poking out above the waterline.

Capybara populations are considered stable through much of their range, but hunting in some areas has reduced their numbers.