#capabara

Akron Zoo Announces Two Capybara Birth

April 23, 2010

The Akron Zoo announced the birth on March 24, 2010 of two capybara babies. The capybara's scientific name hydrochaeris is Greek for "Water Hog".

Capybaras are the world's largest rodent. Their name originates from the Guarani word Kapiyva, which means “master of the grasses.” Capybara are semi-aquatic mammals found wild in much of South America in densely forested areas near bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, swamps, ponds and marshes. They are usually found in large groups of between 10 and 20 individuals and live along rivers and marsh areas. Capybara populations are stable throughout most of their South American ranges, although in some areas hunting has reduced their numbers.

Photos: Akron Zoo