lesser capybara

The lesser capybara (H. isthmius) is one of two species of large, semiaquatic South American rodents belonging to the genus Hydrochoerus. These rodents inhabit forests and wetlands from Panama to Argentina. The lesser capybara is smaller than its larger relative, the capybara (H. hydrochaeris), growing to about 1 meter (3 feet) in length and weighing around 28 kg (62 pounds). They have short hair, blunt snouts, short legs, small ears, and virtually no tail. Lesser capybaras are shy and live in groups near lakes and rivers, feeding in the morning and evening and resting during the day. They are herbivores and can be considered pests in agricultural areas due to their consumption of crops like melons, grain, and squash. They are adept swimmers and divers, often using water to escape predators such as jaguars and anacondas. Females typically have one litter per year, with three to eight young. The lesser capybara is found from central Panama through northwestern Colombia and far northwestern Venezuela. Both capybara species are listed as of least concern by the IUCN.1