Capybaras look like guinea pigs that drank a growth potion — they're the largest rodents on Earth. They lounge in groups by rivers, swim like pros, and are famously relaxed: other animals literally sit on them.
📋 Capybara at a glance
⚡ Superpower
Capybaras are so calm that birds, monkeys, and even turtles use them as comfy benches.
🤩 Amazing Capybara facts
Capybaras are the world's largest rodents — up to 150 lb.
❓ Common questions about capybaras
How big is a capybara?
Up to 150 lb (68 kg). Capybaras are the world's largest rodents — up to 150 lb.
Where do capybaras live?
Capybaras live in the wild: riversides & wetlands of south america. They are wild animals and are never kept as pets.
How long do capybaras live?
Capybaras typically live 8–10 years.
Can you keep a capybara as a pet?
No — Capybaras are wild animals that belong in the wild (riversides & wetlands of south america), and keeping one would be unsafe and usually illegal. The closest pet you can actually keep is a guinea pig — see our care guide.
Could you keep a capybara as a pet?
No — capybaras are wild animals that belong in the wild, and keeping one would be unsafe and almost always illegal. But if capybaras are your favorite, here's the closest pet you actually can welcome home:
Meet the Guinea PigBecause a capybara is basically a giant guinea pig — and a guinea pig gives you the same gentle, chatty charm in a pet-sized package.
See care guide →
🎬 See capybaras in action
Watch kid-friendly videos about capybaras on YouTube.
▶ Watch Capybara videos on YouTube