Capy Learning Corner

Can Capybaras Swim?

Swimming is their superpower

Capybaras are semi aquatic. They have partially webbed feet, they can hold their breath underwater for several minutes, and their eyes, ears, and nostrils sit high on the head so they can float almost fully submerged, hippo style, while watching the shore.

Water is their safe room

When danger appears, a capybara does not run far, it runs wet. Predators lose them at the waterline. Capybaras even sleep in water with just their noses above the surface, and they mate, cool off, and socialize there too.

Everything about them makes sense in water

The barrel body, the calm, the high-mounted senses: capybaras only fully make sense once you know they are basically furry hippos. It is our favorite thing to explain in sessions.

Go deeper: Capybara facts and quiz, or browse the full Animal Encyclopedia.