The Popularity of Capybaras

The capybara is a large South American rodent that has become a true internet star in recent years. These gentle “water pigs” live near rivers and swamps, are excellent swimmers, and spend most of their free time in the water. In size, they resemble a small dog, and their temperament is surprisingly soft: calm, friendly, curious, and completely non-aggressive.

Capybaras live in groups of up to twenty animals. They communicate a lot with each other, whistling and clicking, and when danger arises, they make short “barking” sounds and hide the young in the center of the group. Babies are born fully sighted, covered in fur, and quickly become independent, though they continue nursing for the first few months.

Capybaras mainly eat vegetation: grass, algae, and roots. Like many other rodents, they re-ingest their feces to better digest tough fibers — this is a normal part of their digestive process.

They easily adapt to humans and coexist peacefully with other animals. In zoos, capybaras share enclosures with llamas, birds, or monkeys without conflict. This gentle nature, combined with their amusing appearance and ability to sit in warm water for hours, has made them internet favorites.

Capybaras appear in videos, toys, and cartoons. In Japan, they have almost become national icons. Their popularity has reached Russia too, with memes, songs, funny clips, and crowds of children at enclosures who know capybaras by name.

These animals have become symbols of calm and serenity. Perhaps that is why the whole world has fallen in love with them today.