The largest living rodent in the world is called Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris). It is also known as Capibara, Chigüire in Venezuela, Ronsoco in Peru, Chigüiro, and Carpincho in Spanish,and Capivara in Portuguese. Its closest relatives are Agouti, Chinchillas, Coyphillas, and Guinea Pigs.
The common name comes from the Guarani (indigenous language from South-America, spoken by many tribes) Kapiÿva. It means "master of the grasses". The scientific name, hydrochaeris, is Greek for "water hog".
Capybara is semi-aquatic mammals found wild in densely forested areas near water, such as lakes, swamps, ponds and along rivers in tropical forest in of South America.
Capybara is grazing mainly on grasses and aquatic plants, fruit and tree bark. An adult Capybara will eat 2,5 to 3,5 kg (6 to 8 pounds) per day.
Since the Capybara often goes into water, it is the preferred prey of the
Anaconda, the heaviest snake on Earth. It also seems to be a favorite food for
Jaguars, Pumas, Ocelots, Eagles and Caimans (Alligators).
Capybaras are hunted for their meat and pelts in some areas, but also killed by humans who see their grazing as competition for livestock.
