Who are Capybaras?
Capybaras are the largest rodents in the world, belonging to the guinea pig family and native to South America. Their scientific name is Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris. With an average length of 1-1.3 meters and weighing between 35-65 kg, Capybaras are truly giants among rodents.
Despite their size, Capybaras have a gentle and peaceful disposition and are known for their friendliness. They are highly sociable and get along with a wide range of other species.
Capybaras are large yet gentle creatures (Photo: Tuoi Tre)
What makes Capybaras social media stars is their calm and non-confrontational nature. They are often seen relaxing or playing with a diverse range of animals, including dogs, cats, ducks, birds, lizards, and turtles. Capybaras are the epitome of interspecies friendship.
In some viral photos, Capybaras are seen calmly floating in the water or leisurely grazing while a troop of monkeys climbs on their backs—a true display of zen-like tranquility!
Aquatic Life, Herbivores, and a Love for Hot Spring Baths
Capybaras inhabit wet, swampy areas near rivers and streams in countries like Brazil, Venezuela, and Colombia. They are semi-aquatic, with webbed feet, and excellent swimmers. During the summer, they spend hours in the water to cool off, and in the winter, they can be found relaxing in hot springs, a delightful sight reminiscent of traditional Japanese onsen.
Meet Capybaras Up Close at Saigon Zoo
For those captivated by these charming creatures, there’s exciting news! Capybaras have recently made their debut at the Saigon Zoo in June 2025.
The zoo has introduced a “Friendly Zoo” area where visitors can interact with gentle and amicable animal species, including Capybaras. This is the first time these famous rodents have been exhibited in Vietnam, offering the public a unique opportunity to observe their adorable behavior up close and personal. Visitors can take photographs and watch them from a close distance in an open environment.
Meeting Capybaras in person is now easier than ever!
The Six Animals That Snakes Fear the Most
In the natural world, there exist certain creatures that strike fear into the hearts of snakes, causing them to slither away in retreat. These so-called “natural enemies” of snakes possess an innate ability to instill dread and provoke a hasty escape.
A Day at Saigon Zoo: Celebrating the Giraffe’s First Birthday and Indulging in a Culinary Journey Across Vietnam
Are you ready to celebrate Vietnam’s Reunification Day and International Workers’ Day with your little ones? Why not visit Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens for a unique experience? Come and join us as we celebrate the first birthday of our beloved giraffe calf. Indulge in a culinary journey through Vietnam with delicious cuisine from the three regions. It’s a fun-filled event you won’t want to miss!
