Rainforest Expeditions (est. 1989) operates three award winning Amazon lodges: Posada Amazonas, Refugio Amazonas, and Tambopata Research Center. Each Amazon lodge provides access to a unique set of ecotourism experiences in the jungle of southeastern Peru.
Our packages include activities comprised of aspects of nature and culture of the Amazon rainforest. We offer a variety of special interest activities, tours and expeditions like Soft Adventure, Birdwatching expeditions, Family and more...
Capybara (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris)
Photo: Mike Ritters
Name: Capybara
Local name: Ronsoco, Capibara
Scientific name: Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris
Characteristics:
1. Size 1.3m. Weight 60 kg.
2. Large, rectangular head; and arched, rounded rump.
3. Fur dark reddish brown without distinctive markings.
4. Tail not visible.
5. Large, webbed feet.
Habitat and behavior: Diurnal, terrestrial. Always found near water. The capybara occurs in lowland forest, swamps, lagoons, gallery forest, and flooded savanna. Live in families of 2 to 8 individuals but sometimes seen in groups of up to 20.
Diet: Herbivorous. Mainly feeds on grass and acuatic vegetation. Often found submerged while eating.
Reproduction habits: Give birth once a year to up to 7 young capybaras in a single litter. Sexual maturity is reached after 18 months.
Curiosities: The capybara is the biggest rodent in the World. They can remain underwater for up to 10min. Capybaras have adaptations to amphibian life like eyes, ears and nostrils located at the same level on the head that allows them to have the entire body underwater while their senses detect a potential predator (jaguars, caimans and humans). Can live up to 12 years.
