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Call for questions: CAPYBARAS (Patreon)

Published:
2024-01-16 01:48:50
Edited:
2024-01-16 04:18:53
Imported:
2026-06

Content

I'm interviewing a capybara expert! Dr. Elizabeth Congdon might be the only North American biologist studying Earth's largest rodents so I'm going to lob her as many of your questions as possible. These squatty, social babes primarily found in South America have been seen a lot lately in memes, living the spa life and giving piggyback rides to other species. What do you want to know??? Deadline for questions is Wednesday, January 17 at 5pm PST.

Comments

Max Newman

I know Capybaras are rodents, but why are they classified that way?

TJ Mckenna

WHY DO THEY EXIST?!?!?

Paige

Why are these creatures so ding dang loveable by all species?

Zed Shirogane

Why the citrus on their heads trend? Is that even real?

Brittney Corrigan

What are their natural predators? Why do they get along so well with other animals?

TJ Mckenna

But no really, why do they exist at such a large size in comparison to other members of its family?

Celeste

MY BELOVEDS!!! ok kinda a downer but I have heard they are actually quite vicious and violent and I just don't understand how the animals that hang in saunas with oranges in their heads can have both qualities (though I know animals gonna animal).

V.E. Griffith

What do you think of Ze Frank and Creepy Dave?

Valerie Hanley

Why do they spend so much time in the water?

Adam Weaver

Are there any other close relatives to the capybara? Is there more than one species? Extant or otherwise?

Badoopadoo!

Why do they always have that cute little orange on their head? 🍊

Taylor Clinton

Are they related to guinea pigs? We have 2 pigs and these just look like giant versions of them 😂❤️

Celeste

Is it a bad idea to go to a place where you can pet them?

Ashley Stroup

Why do they eat watermelon so adorably? I could watch them eating crunchy fruits all day and never getting annoyed at their chewing sounds.

Jackie Driscoll

What are their defenses against predators? Do they have predators??

Shannon Burns

Why are they so chill? They live in such a hostile place but seem to just be buddies with everyone, inspirational truly.

The Joyful Spitfire

*squealing in excitement and curiosity* The cute aggression towards these animals is palatable. What are they doing being so cute and can they be my friend?

Sophie

How do they get along with everyone, they just seem to be bros with all the creatures ?

Celeste

How did people decide they long to be in spas with fruit?

Nova Q

What got you into capybaras/large wild rodents?

Steven Shelley

We always see pictures and videos of them vibing with other animals, how chill are they in real life? Do they normally have buddies from all over the animal kingdom?

Diana Teeter

Why do they get along with everyone so well? Are they really that chill?

Mara Rosenbloom

How is one creature both so chill and so exciting at the same time? But honestly, do they really carry their babies on their backs through water or is that an Instagram created thing?

mish the fish

ask her about the dancing baby capybara at the zoological wildlife foundation in miami

Alex Glow

Rodent- but so big! How? Why aren’t there also dog-sized rats or chinchillas?

Celeste

Are the interspecies friendship photos real?

Amanda Regan

FTQA: Do they have any predators/enemies? They seem very chill. Like, they let other animals just ride around on them!

Anne LeVan

So does this make Capybaras technically ROUS’es?

Carmen Yafoz

What makes them so peaceful and docile to other animals? Like are they just giving off the right vibe or do they not taste good to other animals

Rachel Weisz

How do you feel about the capybara song making the rounds as a tik tok audio? Why is it so catchy? Why do I catch myself singing it every time I see one? Why are they so cute??

Kate Timms

Capybara in a zoo in Malaysia adopted a kitten into their family. Have there been any incidences in the wild or other zoos of capybara adopting a member of another species into their herd? Or even members of other capybara families?

Mushroom Morgan

Why are so many creatures so chill with them? Like even animals pretty high on the food chain seem to leave them alone

Rachael Gardner

Why are they so dang big? Also, I’m irrationally afraid of them. Is there a capybara fact that will help me love them?

Adam Foote

As a biologist I should have more technical questions, but: If you touch or pet a capybara, are they soft? Squishy? Oily? Oh, and do they make adorable noises?

Chris Moore

1. Are capybaras the largest rodent *ever*? 2. Do capybaras cache food like many of their rodent kin? 3. Do capybara ferment their food like other medium-to-large herbivores? Do any rodents? 4. OMG, so excited for this episode!!!

Celeste

Is the capybara song the boppiest bop to ever bop?

phinn markson

Giant rats!! I love them. Im curious how the population is doing lately. Seems things haven't been going great for them.. Disease... Habitat loss

Peyton Nill

Can i own one as a pet? I mean exotic pet laws aside, would this be a good pet?

Kate Oldham

Are they as prolific as other rodents??

Brittany Shafis

I love capybaras. They are so cute and so chill. Do they make funny noises like guinea pigs do?

Rachel A

FTQA and Capybara-lover: What makes them such good swimmers? They have the tiniest little feet!

Emma is Rosey

What are capybara’s social structure like? Do they love each other?

Paulina Tarr

Why are capybaras found all over South America except Chile? What’s wrong with Chile?! Also how is their range sooo big?

Mushroom Morgan

How did they get so big? Who is their closest evolutionary relative?

Alexis Low

FTQA: How fast can they run?

Peyton Nill

How in the world did this animal come about? It's the most random rodent animal hybrid I have ever seen

Emma is Rosey

Why do they have the orange on they head

Iso Partee

FTQA: YES! I love these guys! Are these guys as friendly as they look? I feel like I always see pictures of them hanging with other species…even alligators?

Seán Thomas Kane

My students love capybaras! Are they domesticated? They seem so calm and docile.

Timmy H.

But like what are your feelings about the Capybara song?

Kate Timms

Capybara seem much more docile than other rodent species. Is it their size which makes them more docile or something else?

Becky Wilkinson

They look like giant guinea pigs. Do they wheeet wheeet like guinea pigs? Please say "yes, but louder."

kirby Ansett

Hey Pod Dad, are they really friends with everyone or are they just an inconvenient size to eat? Love you x

Mowana Lomaomvaya

My brother and I are obsessed with them and only communicate via sending videos and memes back and forth about capybaras. Why are they so chill?

Matt Hirschl

What is the evolutionary history of the C-Babs? And why/how did a rodent do so damn well thus far?

Diana Staresinic-Deane

Do capybaras and other rodents (like guinea pigs) recognize each other as fellow rodents?

Rachel Hamilton

Weird question: what does she think about the fact that the Catholic church says they are ok to eat during Lent? (1st time asker)

Zathrynn

How are they so chill?? I feel they’re the cool uncle of the animal world and I would like to befriend one someday

Becky Wilkinson

What does their fur feel like? It looks like hair. Is it hair?

phinn markson

I mean otter cute as they are... Welp. They're rapey. It's a real bummer. I be like "you're too cute to be committing gender based violence as your primary form of reproduction. What gives yo?!"

River Canina

why are they such chill dudes also very precious

Spicy Native

First time question asker: What do they smell like?

Zathrynn

What is the plural for capybaras? (Like how ravens are called a murder?)

Iso Partee

FTQA: do they have webbed feet to help with swimming??

Paulina Tarr

Are there other semi aquatic rodents?

Courtney Peterson

Yes! Going off of this question, what does their phylogenetic tree look like?

Jennah Oshiro

Are they really friends with everyone? And if so, is it an evolutionary adaptation?

Evan Davis

Do they like little kisses on the head 🥺👉👈

Sarah king

What’s the average penis length for a capybara?

The Joyful Spitfire

How has deforestation impacted the capybara? Are there organizations dedicated to saving land before it is purchased by industry?

NoSoftSmiles

Why are they outliers as far as size goes for rodents? How did they evolve to be so big? Do they have health issues for being bigger with the hardware of a hamster?

EdNoGG

Do I have to move to S America to have one 😩😩😩😩

Trevor Hagedorn

How complex is thier social structure within their groups?

Emma is Rosey

I once got to pet a capybara at a kangaroo and capybara farm in Kelowna. It felt like a kiwi. Why is their hair so corse?

Evan Davis

Why are capybaras always taking baths with oranges?

Sam

FTQA: Is there an evolutionary advantage to their block like heads? If you compare them to animals with a very pronounced snoot (like an anteater) it seems that a flat-rectangular face might be a disadvantage? How does this affect their diets? Thanks! Sam

Sarah king

Solitary or hang out together in cute capybara group?! Like a cute ass family!!!!

Sarah Railey King

FTQA: These adorable R.O.U.S.es (rodents of unusual size) always look SO cute and friendly… But are they actually that friendly? So excited for this episode!

Aurora Arriaga

Why are they so friendly and not as skittish as other rodents

Erin Everton

I am RUNNING to this notification, do capybaras have a social structure that includes other species or are the photos of them chilling with ducks and such just circumstance? Basically I am asking if they are actually friends with these animals of other species haha

Sarah king

Do people eat them? Hunt them?

Felix Lasselle

Please please please tell me that their fur is soft.

Iso Partee

Why do they make me laugh so much when I see them hurtling into the water—-their fat bodies just torpedo right in !!!

Bumblebeevie 🐝

Are capybaras actually as docile/peaceful as they are portrayed to be? Is this true within their species’ social structure as well?

Meg Kelly

Very important very scientific question: have you heard the Capybara song?

Spencer J

Do they gnaw down trees like beavers?

Meg Kelly

Could a Capybara love me? Are they capable of love? Do they love their mates / mate for life??

Arlo Kay

Why are they so chill? Also what's with them having oranges on their heads in popular depictions?

Felix Lasselle

If capybaras were the size of horses, could we ride them? How would this have changed human history? And would we call in the capylry?

Lizzy Martinez

Why do capybaras resemble giant guinea pigs? Question is from a guinea pig parent :).

Scott Sheldon

Most rodents don’t get too big. Did this baby just get into an ecological niche that allowed for growth? Was there selective pressure? Why???

Kathryn Knopinski

Can I have one as a pet? Please say yes and nothing about it ripping off my face.

Surisitee

What is the science behind their chill vibes/personality

SpunkyS

As much as I would love to have a capy pet (they are my spirit animal) is it really a good idea?

Michelle Lore

Have you read the book Capyboppy by Bill Peet?

Sydonie S.

Are they always as chill as the Internet makes them seem? If so, how do I become one?

Karen Underwood

FTQA Who are their predators? Do humans eat them? If so, how do that hunt and prepare them? Not a vegetarian throwing shade, just curious. Thank you!

Aimee Martin

why do they look SO much like Post Malone?

Jessi

Why do they love baths and showers so much?!?

Surisitee

I asked on audio also as my first question asked but-- what r they like when mad? What does an agitated/aggressive capybara sound like? I imagine something silly like how Dholes sound

Ja Jo: Art & Craft

How many times do they have to eat their poop to get all the nutrients? Do they float? Do they live a good life in the zoos depicted on social media?

Scott Sheldon

Downer Debbie here, but with the destruction of the Amazon…are they ok? I doubt thriving but ok?

Bassist Ex Machina

Are capybaras the end product after Guinea pigs were accidentally exposed to gamma radiation and became Incredible Hulk rodents?

Jay Miraldi

Are they really as chill as they seem? They always look so unbothered in videos 😂

Alice Rubin

Is it ok for people to keep capybara as pets, or are they wild animals that simply belong in the wild?

Scott Sheldon

What adaptation would Dr. Congdon wish that capybaras could adapt to survive their world today?

Caitlin Savo

Is their fur as rough as everybody says?

Lianne Murray

Oh im so excited for this one. I got to meet a family of capybaras and wish i could share pictures here. The rescue had babies born and i was in tears i love them so much. Do the males have oil glands on their heads to mark territory? Or is that something else on top of their heads?

Jessie Cole

No questions, just need to pass on this hilarious story from years back. High Park in Toronto has a very small, odd, kinda sweet (for a) zoo... and we have capybaras. They decided to go on the lam (romantic romp?) during a transfer, then had 3 babies. ❤️ There was also a peacock that decided to leave and wander the surrounding neighbourhood for a week or so, but that's another story. ❤️ https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/capybara-high-park-zoo-1.3598908 https://www.highparkzoo.ca/capybaras-escaped-zoo-summer-love-now-theyre-back-babies/

Bugzie

As someone who grew up Louisiana seeing crazy variety in native and invasive wildlife do these big babies have any relation to Nutria? Do they cause similar damage to landscape? Are they anywhere in the US they shouldn’t be?

Lianne Murray

The ones i met were super chill 😂

Autumn Knol

I think I heard something once that the Catholic church recognizes capybara's as fish during lent - is this true? if so, whyyyyyy?

Frankie Sellitto

Why do we see so many images of them in baths with oranges and other fruits?

Ang&Steve

"Are capybaras actually an invasive Everglades species in Florida, or is that flim flam?"

Lianne Murray

I do animal education programs and that song gets sung so much by the kids 😂 i dont even have a capybara!

Malorie Albee

Has this expert read the book "Capyboppy" by Bill Peet??

Squirrelfriend

There are so many videos of pelicans trying to eat capybaras that it can’t be a coincidence. What’s going on there?

Lianne Murray

Sadly it is not soft. More like wire. I was pretty surprised. But i will tell you that kangaroos are super soft!

Peregrine

FTQA - Yeah, I’m very curious about how they relate to other rodents! Why is this particular species so large and why aren’t any other types of rodents as large? Did they diverge evolutionarily longer ago than other rodents/are they a bit of a megafauna remnant (although they are not especially mega)?

Annalise De Young

I'm assuming they have the whole "teeth always growing" thing as other rodents going on. What do they like to nibble on? What are their favorite snacks?

Luisa Parnes

I grew up in Rio where they hang out a lot in the local lagoon. What advantages are there for the urban capybaras? What is it about the big city environment that appeals to them?

Melissa Po

I feel like I've heard that people make them into pets. Are they actually good pets or do they just have fuzzy faces that makes humans wants to pets? Also why do zoo pelicans keep trying to eat them? And my son would like to know if they're related to pigs. Lots of mysteries...

Lianne Murray

I also wish to know if they really are friendly with ither animals. Ive even seen them chilling with alligators!

Quincey Robisheaux

is it true that Catholics declared the capybara a type of fish so that people could eat it?

Alice Rubin

What ecosystem services do they provide? Why are they the ultimate friend of the animal kingdom? What's up with capybaras soaking with oranges??? Have you seen the capybara reddit channel? https://www.reddit.com/r/capybara/ Please explain why pelicans want to try to eat capybaras?

Nina Eve Z.

My partner wants to know if you can talk about that neighborhood in Brazil? Apparently a fancy housing development went and the capybaras were all like “oh hell no, we were here first” and moved back in. Thank you!

Lianne Murray

I got to pet some 2 summers ago. They have hair like wire lol

Erin Gunderson

What is it about them that makes them such good frens with ALL THE OTHER ANIMALS???

Jonatgan

What’s up with them being friends with so many other animals? Are those pictures representative of reality, and if so, what predators do they even have?

shizzamX

Why do they like to be in water so much?

Lianne Murray

Oo this is interesting. Id also like to know how they are doing in urban areas. Are they good at surviving there?

Jonatgan

Also can she upload a two-to-three hour long youtube capybara photo and video compilation? Thanks!

Danduhman

You know the sayings about breeding like rodents, how do our super-sized friends measure up?

Daphné Cloutier

Long time listener, first time question asker here! 👋 Capybaras having hot yuzu/orange/other citrus baths: what’s up with this?!

ChimeWitch

Do they have their own body language? Is it easy to pick up on?

Lianne Murray

You can tell him that they are related to guinea pigs! But not pigs froma farm haha. Though they do look like they would be!

Amandaloveskurt

FTQA: Are they really just giant guinea pigs? And why are they so chill?

Carley Cross

Came here just to say this! Why!?

Avren Keating

How are they so fucking cool though??

Erin Everton

I have also seen that photo and I was so shocked at first, especially because they unfortunately look delicious (are they delicious??)

Bee

Why are these the chillest creatures on earth and how can I get some of that chill for myself?

Lianne Murray

Yes! How many babies do they have a year? Im thinking its closer to guinea pigs and chinchillas where they only have a few. Are they born with their eyes open like guinea pigs? Or hairless and blind like rabbits?

Hannah Gorrie

Why is their behavior so different from other rodents - they don't live in large colonies, don't move quickly, or seem to have a high reactivity reflex. I imagine not having many natural predators has something to do with it, but not all?

Chandler Witherington

What’s the significance, if any, of the capybara to any of the Indigenous groups in South America? Does it have any spiritual significance or is it/was it a critical food source?

Julia Lorraine

First time asker! Are Capybaras as sweet as media portrays them? Or can they be aggressive?

Rachael Swenson

My fiance wants to know are they really that chill? And if so why? Do they do psychedelics or yoga?

Rachael Swenson

I've read they eat their own poop. Is this like rabbits where they have special poop to get more nutrients from it the second time around?

Thedorknextdoor

FTQA 🤓 Hey there dad! 1) Do capybaras have any way of defending themselves against predators? They seem so calm and docile, but I’ve always wondered if they have any sneaky little tricks up their sleeves! 2) How fast can capybaras run and swim? 3) Please tell us ALL THE THINGS about capybara babies!!

Reagan Kendera

is it true they'd make great pets if not for how much they farted?

curly fry

OMG I LOVE CAPYBARAS!! So excited for this episode! Pls talk about their square poop! Like how does that even work?

Tall Floating Dog

How are they related to guinea pigs? As a self-appointed guinea pig queen I would love to know

curly fry

Where do they live?

SteeljawPanda

How do I apply to become a Capybara? ...kinda done with being a monkey TBH

Lauren Hurlburt

Are capybaras as chill as they seem online? Also do you get the capybara song stuck in your head too?

MJ Boyle

I have a relative whose neighbor owns capybaras. Is this advisable and if so, what are they like as pets??

Katie Hammond

This, also curious about any other giant rodents that have evolved throughout time.

Milan Ilnyckyj

Why are they chill with all creatures? Why did people decide to give them hot tubs? What is their social order like? Do we know anything about how or what they think? Oh, and if you haven't read the story of "Bonnie & Clyde's" escape from the High Park Zoo it's good local news content and proof that a live trap baited with corn can bring to an end the most spirited sprint for liberty outside the bounds of the law

Camila Gamino

What is the domestication process for capybara?

Deacon Raid

Hup! Since they fulfill a similar niche as hippos, and there’s groups of feral hippos around the world (thinking of Escobar’s cocaine hippos and the aborted plan to introduce hippos to Louisiana as a food source), are there any places where capybara have been introduced either accidentally or intentionally? Imagining a world with feral capybara instead of feral coypu (aka nutria)

Betsy B

What would our world look like without them? Like, if they disappeared, what would we lose? (or, if we want to take a more positive spin, what do they make possible besides piggy back rides?) And why is it jus so fun to say their name?

Aleah Cefalu

First time question asker here! Have you been to the capybara cafe in Tokyo?!

Branwyn Iverson

Why are they so dang big and what do they eat to get that way?? And how would you rate their cuteness on a scale of 1-10?

Juliette

Hi, there! Growing up in Brazil, I would see Capivaras all the time just like I see deer here in the US. I found it very curious how all of the sudden they became so crazy popular. I was wondering how they gained such popularity but I don’t believe that is a question for a biologist. On a different note, where are other areas where they are found such as where they enjoy hot springs? If that is not a natural thing, how come they started frequenting hot tubs? Additionally, how come they are so chill with every animal?

Rick T

I love them! Are they easily domesticated?

Alex Joseph

Not a question, but one time I was at a zoo and a medium little boy asked his dad re: the capybara: “what does that one do?” And the dad responded “what do you do?” And I just thought it was a great parenting moment

Tyra pereira

Do Capybaras have any enemies in the wild and do they have any way to defend themselves?

Gabriella Rodriguez

How do they have so many homies?? In every pic I come across they’re chillin amongst other animals! Love them!!!

Alex Joseph

It’s possible it was “what’s the point of that one?” Followed by “whats the point of you?” It was definitely one of the two exchanges but I can’t remember for sure 😭

Kalila Elahi

Do they have any self defense mechanisms?? They seem pretty chill and cute, are they very fast and agile or something?

Verena Runstadler

My dad would like to know what noises they make and what they taste like!

Sam

After sending a photo of a cute capybara to the family group chat, it was brought to my attention that capybaras look a lot like the nutria found in Louisiana. Nutria are not considered nearly as cute and lovable :( Are nutria just capybaras’ evil twins?

G.Sil

My partner asks: is this a sea otter situation where capybaras look really cute but are actually very evil? Myself: I want to know about conservation challenges and status? Does tourism or global fame help them or hurt them?

Sonjabird

Were ROUS’s (rodents of unusual size) based on capybaras? Except aren’t they very docile?

Heather Livingston

They seem really social but i always see pics of them with other animals. Do capybaras hang out together or prefer other species? What are their family groupings like and how old are they when they strike out on their own? How fast do their hearts beat? Does their fur feel soft or wiry? What do they smell like? Are they as chill as they seem or is that just their appearance?

Storm

Do you like the capybara song

Deanna Roberson

Hi! Wondering how many capybaras are in a litter? And what affect global warming has had on their species?

Storm

what noises do they make?

Storm

where are they from? what even is a capybara!!?

Cat Baklarz

What does it take for an animal to go viral? Is it just a catchy song? Capybaras don't have that eye to skull ratio thing that otters and cats have, do they? Why does the internet love these dudes?

April Carter

How do they get rides from crocodiles? They are literally friends with everyone! What is their friendship secret?

Ren

According to the Vatican, capybaras are fish. How does Dr. Congdon feel about this?

Jani Rounds

Are they REALLY that chill?

Elizabeth Davis

I know they're wild animals, but they do seem like they'd be great pets. What would it take to create an environment for them to be comfortable to be a pet?

Tori Baggot

How long can they stay under water? And do they eat fish?

Will Clark

Do they come in a variety of coat colors?

grace

do they like oranges!!! do you wish you were a capybara in a hot spring with an orange on your head dr.!

MAD

I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS TOPIC! What the hell is going on with their interspecies relationships? Are they really that tolerant? Do they really ride on alligators? We need to know the science behind the chill factor

Elise Kaplan

i second this!!! where do they lie in the food chain?

Olivier Calas

Are capybaras in anyway endangered?

Clair Widener

Real talk, are they as friendly as they seem? You just don’t hear about many asshole Capys. Is it just really good PR? 🤣

James Jakes

My GF asks, would a capybara think a guinea pig is its baby?

ava guihama !

Same!!!! I am so intrigued by what makes other animals (like alligators) seem to not want to harm them.

Dora Csurgai

Why are they not domesticated? They seem like the ideal candidate.

LJ

Hi, first time question asker here!! Why do they only mate in the water?

Jordan Boudreau

What's the deal with them bathing with oranges and why is it the cutest?

Iso Partee

Are they related to beavers ?

LJ

Also what's the deal with the Catholic Church and capybara meat??

David Villafranco

Why are capybara so chill with every other animal including predators, ive seen videos of them riding on the backs of crocodiles before

Alyssa Ranker

Fiancé wants to know: Are they considered pests in any capacity?

Alyssa Ranker

How come they're almost like giant guinea pigs? Is the guinea pig body plan the Ideal Rodent Body Type™️ but Capybaras just added a little ✨️aquatic flair✨️

Mandii Smith

What’s with capybaras and oranges? Capybaras as pets- good or bad?

Mandii Smith

Do they have to chew on things to keep their teeth from getting too long like other rodents?

Mandii Smith

I’m just gonna say it… If rodent, how also lil’ babies?

Alyssa Ranker

BFF Elisa wants to know: Do they really not have any natural predators??

Jenna Congdon

Honestly almost cried tears of joy when I saw this topic!! As others have asked: why and how are they so laid back? Why don't they seem to be afraid of anything, and why do they seem to love both giving and receiving piggyback rides? What do they eat? Are they endangered, thriving, or somewhere in between? Does anyone keep them as pets? Because I'd love to hang with a chillaxed giant guinea pig. And finally, has the ologist (who shares my last name, what?!) ever given one a good scritch between the ears? Life goals, right there.

Jenna Congdon

I forgot: are they actually related to guinea pigs and beavers, or do they just look alike?

PopsicleEmperor

Why are they so big? Were they once even Bigger?

Levi Morris

Do they always carry small cute monkies around on their backs, or is that just for show?

Emily P

I read that they can hold their breath for 5 minutes underwater. How do they do that? What are their lungs/breathing apparatus like?

Renee K.

Where do they live? Do they dig burrows? Do they build dams, like beavers do? Are they usually in forests or prairies?

Olivia Lester

AHhh first time (and absurdly excited) q asker, long time fan!!! Why don't capybaras have long tails like other rodent relatives? How/why have they adapted to swim? Capybara meat? What do they feel like? Teeth? Eyecolors? Penises? Any cultural lore? Why have they not entered the common pet arena? Illegal (why?)? $$? Can they learn commands akin to rats? Therapy animals? Trophy prize? I am hemorrhaging curiosity...

Average_pi

Do they like cuddles? Can I eat one ( I would never they're to cute but I still want to know) Why are they so cute? I'm so excited capybaras are so much fun!

Kate Palmbach

Hi! Love capybaras and they are a favorite of mine! As someone who loved guinea pigs and was bit by those same beloved guinea pigs growing up, how does a capybaras bite force compare? How do they use their teeth?

Molly Petzl

Can you potty/litter box train Capybara? And do they cuddle? Like will they snuggle on my lap? Do they get along with cats by chance?

Riikka Puttonen

Are the various citrus fruits in their baths there purely for (human) aesthetic reasons?

Derek Eidem

FTQA: are they really that docile towards humans in the wild? Or are the ones we see in videos just so chill from living in captivity

Nita Chen

Greetings, are there really capybaras in Florida?!

Riikka Puttonen

Do they truly just calmly hang around some predators, just like that no fucks given? Or is that just internet flim-flam.

Riikka Puttonen

Based on range of emotion capybara sure seems like Mr. Spock 🖖 of the animal world. Why are they so calm and what does an especially happy capybara do/look like?

Patrick Duffy

Why are their teeth so big tho? What would human teeth look like if they were proportional?

Christina Samela

Do they like being pet? What do they feel like??

Courtney Weaver

How smart are they? As compared to a rat for example?

Tina Robbins

According to my daughter, everyone is talking about Capybara’s these days on the socials. Is that “popularity” a good thing? Are they benefiting from the attention or is it harming their numbers?

Ellie Frances

What is their social hierarchy like? Matriarchal or patriarchal? Do they prefer chilling alone or with a group? Also what is a group of them called?

Kieran H

Why are capybaras seemingly so chill? Do they have any natural predators?

Ned Lansing

Why are they so chill with every single other animal? They're like anti hippos

Deli Dames

Does she know the Capybara song?? Has popularity in capybaras increased since the virality of that song?

Fiorelily

Do their teeth keep growing like other rodent teeth? Are their teeth on par with beaver teeth for gnawing on trees?

mariia k

can you actually keep them as house pets? or is it like illegal or something

mariia k

what environment is best for them?

mariia k

how many of them are on our planet?

Alyssa Hoff

What are their teeth like? Do they chew wood like beavers? Are they just Australian beavers with docked tails? lol

Taylor

This is my question, too! Do they have any natural predators? Are they a predators to someone else?

Colby Evans

We all owe a debt of gratitude to ‘The Tick’ and his adopted pet Capybara, Speak. My introduction to these wonderful creatures

Lina Staudt

So.. I asked my bf if he had any pressing questions about capybaras and he just repsoneded with 'what are those?'. And I honestly couldn't answer him. So: what ARE capybaras. Are they big, judgy/high guinea pigs? How did they evolve? Why are they friends with everyone?

Lina Staudt

How does it feel to pet one? Are they soft or bristly?

Samsibar

Are they really friends with everyone? Ive seen them hang out with lots and lots of caimans and couldn’t imagen that to be a chill hang.

RobinR

Do they have natural predators, what eats them?

Aurora Cullen

I’m so excited for this!! Two-ish questions: What niche do large rodents occupy and why don’t we see more animals like them?

Brianne Vanderwal

FTQA Has the ologist ever booped a capybara? Are their noses wet like a dog’s?

Gemma

capybaras. and. alligators. what’s going on. is this the disney pixar friendship of our dreams or is there a catch.

Ann Hanlin

Do they feel like a squishy coconut? Will they try to kill me if I try to find out?

Ann Hanlin

What life lesson(s) can we learn from a capybara?

Lena Gwen

Why are they friends with everyone?

Ann Hanlin

I really hope they won’t. I’m scared this is going to turn into another otter situation and I’ll never be able to look at capybaras the same way again after listening to the episode haha

Lena Gwen

Why are they so big? Are there are other big less popular rodents?

Lena Gwen

Are there people who keep capybaras as pets?

Lena Gwen

At which range of temperature do they feel happy?

Lena Gwen

What do they smell like?

Lena Gwen

Are there people eating capybaras like guinea pigs?

Matt Thompson

How did they get so big compared to the other rodents?

Matt Thompson

Are they truly territorial? There's the news story about the Capybaras taking back the land from the rich neighborhood development and I was wondering why

Kerri Chin

Why do they always seem to be relaxing in a spa? (Love that for them though)

Euan Munro

How do I suppress my deeply held desire to have one as a pet, when they are definitely not supposed to be pets?

Sarah Nyland

Hello Dr. Congdon! What are some evolutionary cousins/siblings of the capybara? I saw from other questions that it’s a rodent. Does that mean rats are in its genus? I don’t know if “rodent” refers to a genus/family/order etc.

Reuben Neumair

First time question asker here! Why do they chill out with citrus fruit in Japan so much???

Lizzie R

Why are capybaras the univers chill friend?

Doug Paice

Questions from my smologite (aged 10, so if you read a name, please say "Tilda Mills" instead of mine, she's obsessed with capybaras): How long do they live for? How many babies do they have at a time? Would they make good pets? What are their main predators? What is their primary diet? Why do they always look so chill? What colour are their eyes? Has an albino capybara ever been recorded? What are baby capybaras called, do they migrate? What is a capybaras main defense? What is their favourite flavour of drink?

Maria Whamond

What are they so suspicious of? They always look a liiiiiitle suspicious of something 🤨

Rachel Bradbury

FTQA! Do capybara breed as quickly as other rodents? Thinking specifically rabbits, but wondering about comparisons with other species too.

Aoife Holmes

Are the actually as friendly as they are portrayed online?

Mandy Hobson

Are they really as chill as they look?

Kristina Kunze

My boyfriend wants to know “Yeah, what’s up with those? What’re they doin?” My question: how are they so cute?

Snarky Mermaid

Do they make good eatin’? Do they taste like chicken?

Lindsay Bowman

FTQA Capybaras look like the most adorable hodgepodge of rodent-like animals...what did they evolve from?! Thanks Dad Ward and Dr. Elizabeth Congdon!

Julia

I’ve seen a lot of adorable memes about their maternal drive, they seem to adopt just about any creature that crosses their path. Do they radiate friendly energy? Why do all these animals gravitate towards capybaras?

SpunkyS

Wow great questions!

SpunkyS

I am curious, I often see domesticated capybaras in water. Is this something they do in the wild? Do they swim well? Is this behavior to catch food, cool off, clean off parasites??? What’s up with the water Caoys?????

LJ

it can apparently be eaten during lent?? idk I was looking at the wiki page for question inspiration!

Craig and Cats

FTQA: gifted for Christmas and so excited that this is the first call for questions I can be a part of. How are these cuties related to guinea pigs and agouti? Do they chatter like guinea pigs do? Ps. I’m dying from joy to post this!

Jaclyn Campsey

What are capybaras personality in the wild vs on social media?

Megan Hirth

FTQA From my husband, a big capybara lover… can I kiss them??

Jenny Loome

My husband wants to know: are they more related to possums or raccoons? In case that question doesn't make sense: what other animals are they closely related to?

Amelie Lu

Also wanted to ask: How closely are they related to guinea pigs? They look like their big brothers.

Marley K.

FTQA!! I saw a video of a group (herd? flock?) of capybaras taking an orange cat under their wing, they became best friends. is it common for capybaras to make connections with other animals like that?

Amelie Lu

I know of at least one capybara café (Tokyo, of course), but obviously they are not as domesticated as cats and dogs are. Is it really ok to keep them as pets and have people pet and cuddle them? (Can't blame anyone for wanting to.)

zackever8

Why are they so cute and everyone in the jungle wants to be their friend? Isn’t it deadly there? (First time asker!)

Susan Singley

How are they so damn chill and relaxed when they live in the wild with leopards, huge snakes, and predatory birds? How do they protect themselves and their bebes from .. well, everything?

JeFF Stumpo

First time question asker on behalf of my 12-year-old, Liam (he/they): Are there any US states where it's legal to own a capybara? In places where it isn't legal, what is the concern?

Haily Midgley

FTQA! What makes them such good swimmers? I love the videos of groups of Capybaras leaping into bodies of water like majestic rodent unicorns, it never fails to make me laugh!

Emily Krieger

i am curious how their face shape serves them---how is the shape related to function?

Emily Krieger

Is there a word for a group of capybaras?

Mara Rosenbloom

From my 8-year-old daughter Kira: How does the size of Capybaras compare to other rodents? Is a baby capybara the same size as a guinea pig or is it bigger to begin with?

Emma is Rosey

Do their teeth grow forever like other rodents?

Erik Steiner

FTQA: We see a lot of other species pictured with capybaras, but do any of them maintain symbiotic relationships with the capybara? Thanks!!

Lisa Vehrs

From me and my 2 sons (11 and 18 yo): How can they be so chill with all the big scary predators all around them? How do they defend themselves and their bebes?

Heather Leonard

I want to know about their feet. Do they also work like hands? Can they grab things with them? Also, what’s the etymology of their name?

Tim and Ashley Flintoff (sv Sirius)

Are they the true ROUS’s? (Bonus points if you get the Princess Bride reference) - but seriously, are there examples of capybaras in the media that are portrayed either well or horribly not?

shyla bradford

I’d really like to know more about their sounds… what kind of calls do they make and what do they mean??

Wendy Miller

They have a very unique, hard to classify (at least for me) look to them. Where do they fall in classifications / related-species? Also, I’ve seen pics with some having a sweat gland on their noses, and some without. Is the large sweat gland only on the males?

Heather E Stewart

I wanna know everything about their bison-sized Pleistocene ancestors! And what their survival mechanisms were then and are now versus massive jungle predators?

codolod

I work a lot with university students, and my favourite ice-breaker question is: If you could have a no-beef-no-people-totally-safe-&-the-animal-is-friends-with-you ONE NIGHT in a zoo enclosure, which one would you be in? My answer has been capybara for 3 straight years, am I misled or would they be all down for a capy-cuddle with me, and if so would it be pleasant or would I end up damp and bruised?

Peyton Nill

Would a capybara let me pet it? should I pet it, if it lets me? Will I get a disease or suddenly bitten?

Nathalie Jones

Have they heard the Russian capybara song? Also the “pull up” meme/song?

Kathleen C

Capybaras look like giant guinea pigs–are they related? And are capybaras ever kept as pets?

Gene Phillips

I imagine that there are a wide variety of Indigenous names for Capybara. Are there any you particularly like?

Ryan Brubaker

How in the world did they evolve? Like why did nature select for such a huge rodent?

Morgan Darling

Question from my wife: "Why do they like to swim so much?" also "Can I keep one as a pet?"

Georgie

FTQA (from my 30 y/o friend who lives in an inner city apartment): “Would they make good pets? To have them as a pet, would we have to build a pond for them?”

Zoë Lotus

Do they have mutualistic relationships with other animals?

Lisa Scanlon Mogolov

FTQA: Why are most rodents small, but capybara are so big? Why aren't there 140-pound squirrels?

SalmonLikeTheFish

Why do so many other species feel so safe around them??

Jacob Dassa

Why are they so HECKING cute?

Max G

Do they actually enjoy being people’s pets when they’re domesticated?

Maddy Barnard

Why do capybaras not have functional tails?

Erica Flory

What is a group of capybaras called?

Emily

Why are they the most colossal rodent the world has ever seen? And can you please give a shout out to the Crew 2 Capybaras if Columbus? 💛🖤💛🖤⚽️

katie castañeda

thank you for covering this poddad! you are the best. i first heard about capybaras in fourth grade when reading bill peet’s magnificent tale, capyboppy. does anything stand out as spot on or flimflam in peet’s book?

Lisa N

Why are they such a vibe

Diana Murray

Capybaras: cutest critter, or cutest critter EVER?

Mariana Gonzalez-Rul

What is the benefit of having incisors teeth without roots? I heard it's a common thing among rodents. How are the teeth attached to the mandible?

Oscar Courchaine

What's the role of infanticide in capybara populations?

Bonnie M Rutherford

I was watching capybaras at a zoo and noticed they stayed under water. How do they do that and how long can they stay under?

Bonnie M Rutherford

I have heard that they are corprophagous . I know that some animals eat their own feces to get bacteria that help them digest food. Is that true for capybaras?

Allison McD

I saw someone had one as a pet....good or bad idea?

Earl of Greymalkin

1) What is capybara philosophy? Are they always so chill or do they get aggressive in some contexts? Do all the other animals like them or do they have any predators? Is being chill and lovable a valid strategy to discourage predators? Haha 2) What are the closest related animals to capybaras? What ecological niche are they filling? 3) Is there a particular purpose to their snoot shape? They seem supremely boopable. 4) What sounds do they make? If I wanted to say hello, what sound should I make? 5) What do they smell like? Friendship? 6) What exactly are their little feet like? They kinda look like if rodent feet tried to be hooves. Can they grasp objects well? Do they use claws to fight or for digging? 7) Is that one song stuck in anyone else's head? 8) How good is their eyesight/smell/hearing? Do they use their big ol' nose to navigate the world more than other senses? 9) How many babies can they have at one time? Are they called pups or something else? 10) What is the collective noun for capybaras?

Julia Gilroy

Why do they seem to get along with a bunch of other animals so easily?

Magnus Ursus

What are their mating habits like?

Kasiah Sword @ Happy Day Paintings

Why are they so cute? Does it help them in the wild somehow? Seems like they are friendly to other animals and people, has that helped them somehow not get eaten???

Pavka34

Has anyone ever tried to use capybaras as beasts of burden?

Pavka34

How smart and social are they? Will we one day kneel before our capybara overlords?

Kelly Tracy

My capybara-loving 9-year-old would like to know why they have such big noses.

Kara

Why are they so rectangular?

Katie Murray

Is their fur soft? Are their ears as odd as they look?

Alicia Clarkson

What does their poop look like? I’m picturing giant Guinea pig pellets.

Mindy

Have you heard about the capybara cafe in Tokyo?

Amanda Lask

Why did capybaras end up becoming the largest rodent? What in their environment allowed them to become to big??

Jessi LaHote

FTQA — are they as snuggly as they look? like would a capybara let me give it a hug or would it rip my face off (or something in between)?

Mamabee & DadAussie

Where (in their phylogeny) and why did they evolve to have only a vestigial tail? - Mamabee

Drew Varnado

FTQA: what's up with them chilling with crocs? Is there a symbiotic thing going on? Or do they taste bad? Or is there a defense at play? How come they can chill with dinos like that?

Emmett

How/why did they evolve to get that big? Why oh why are they the largest rodent on earth?

Emmett

I've always been puzzled by the shape of their feet--when I picture a cabybara, I imagine them having hooves. Why? I don't know...but then I see one, and their feet don't look like the little grabby paws of mice, rats, squirrels, etc. So I guess I'm wondering: WHY do their feet look like that?

Mushroom Screams

Why are they so chill? I’ve seen videos of them sitting near alligators and they don’t seem to care if they get eaten

Marla Kaseff

My 13 year old niece (who did a project on them in kindergarten) was wondering “why do capybaras look so grumpy and content?”.

Ninja Squirrel

Do their eggs float or sink? ok, seriously though, they're highly social and can live in very large groups. What is their hierarchy? Are they matriarchal, patriarchal, neither? How do they all get along?

Gigil_Peach

What made capybaras so popular? I swear I didn't hear about them until 5-10 years ago.

FondoDondo35

OK. So what exactly is a rodent? And how are these so cute, while rats are so gross??

Andie Townsend

FTQA here: What’s up with their toes? Why do they have more in the front and not the back???

Claire

FTQA: who eats the friend-shaped beast and why? has the friend-shaped beast evolved traits other than ‘chilling out forever’ and ‘all my besties are invited to my lowkey pool party that i exclusively refer to as a gathering’ vibes to avoid/deter predation?

Amy Narimatsu

Why are they seemingly so chill, how are they so unproblematic? What kind of animal just chills with caymans

Cyntia B

So many questions!!!!!! What is their closest relative? What did they evolve from? What is their defense strategy against their predators?

DakotaCat

Are they really as chill as they appear to be in videos? How does their potato-like body shape give them an advantage in their environment?

Heather Woodford

Asking on behalf of my friend Meg: is it possible to adopt one? Or would it have to be a rescue? If so, how? We live in California, for context. And what kind of habitat & care needs & do they have? Please and thanks. 💗

Stephanie Magnusson

Just they are so cute and they purr when they are happy. And, I got peed on by one at a petting zoo.

Mac Chanterelle

FTQA: 1) what brings them whimsy / what do they do for fun? 2) what's the deal with the oranges

Bianca Palm

FTQA: Is it ethical to keep them as pets? What are their requirements? Why are they so big? Why do they give piggybacks? Do they enjoy being pet?

Valerie Bertha

Are Cappy Barras, the source of rodents of unusual size that is referenced in the princess bride?

Raja

Capybaras! I met one in the Peruvian Amazon on a once-in-a-lifetime trip! His name was Stuart. His mom had become not alived when he was super young and the indigenous fellow who took us on a river meander by wooden raft hung out with Stuart in the jungle there and they had become friends. Stuart hopped on the raft as we set off and was a delight to have hosting us as we birded. Sweet lil' fella! But, my question: how do rodent intelligences compare? I suppose I'm specifically wondering about a capybara-beaver comparison, but any knowledge about other rodents would be welcome too! -Raja (pronounced as rhyming with papaya)

Hailey

Definitely need to hear about the piggybacks!!

Hailey

Are capybaras as friendly as they look? How are they so chill with other species? How did they get to be so huge? And how to they compare to beavers in terms of adaptations, skills, habitats, etc? So many questions and I'm so excited for this episode!!!!

Stephen Moxley

They look so friendly and kind but I’ve heard they can really throw down and fight. What’s the truth?

Brenna Temple

FTQA: How did they get to be the largest rodents? It can't be because there aren't a lot of predators, because a lot of other animals find them to be quite tasty.

Lyssa Mercier

We're very excited for this episode, my partner LOVES Capybaras and is asking can he have one as a pet and giant sibling to our 2 bunnies? Are they really as chilled out as they seem? Would they enjoy belly rubs? On a more serious note, how are their populations doing in the wild?

Rosario Neyra

Why are they ***sooooo cuuuute***?!

Teale Vee

Do capybaras make good pets? Do they thrive like other rodents?

Underwater Corvid

Were there ever giant capybaras (or at least even bigger ones) like giant sloths?

GhoulNextDoor

What was happened evolutionarily to make them like that? When did they branch off from other rodents to be more like a peacefully lumbering cow than the whackadoo pizza thieves skittering across the sidewalk? Or are they actually fast and frightened too?

Staci Pinkowitz

[FTQA] does their fur feel wiry and scratchy like a pig? could you (ethically sourced) use capybara fur as the bristles on a paintbrush?

Mark Hewlette

Maybe it's the tail (lack of a tail)? We hate rats even though they're kind of cute but LOVE capybaras. Do you think it would be the same if they had a big ol' rat tail? Can't wait to hear about these lovable creatures! Are they scavengers? Vegetarians? Seem close to beavers on the evolutionary map? What do they use their never ending teeth on?

Amelia Frank

Are they like vestigial rodential mega-fauna - basically did they start small and get big or go the other way around?

Amelia Frank

Also, what do they smell like? I know that is weird but bearcats smell like popcorn so I think it is a semi-fair question? Do they smell like my Guinea pig growing up? Like horses? Hippos? What?!

Darren Bush

Are they able to be kept as pets, and if so, is it a humane thing to do? I can think of no better pet than a capybara sitting in my backyard in a wading pool eating apple slices.

Sarah Piette

Thinking about the mammalogy episode with the giant pouched rats, do you think capybaras have the capacity to be trained in a similar way? If so, do you think there would be any benefit in doing this?

Patrick Williams

My partner would like to know what their social structure is? I would like to know why they so big?

Ginkoman

Is there any truth to the rumor that in those cute pics of capybaras giving piggyback rides to spider monkeys, that the capybaras are actually luring the monkeys off to forced child labor?

Jasmine Liu

Do they prefer lemons in their baths or do we just decide that? Are they similar to cats in any way or is it just random that a cat in Malaysia moved in with a group of them? Do they like people? Why do we make capybara spas?

Angela Clark

I worked at a zoo over the summer, and one "secret" we kept from the public is that our adult female capy was a murderer. She killed two other capybaras that they thought she'd gotten used to. What's up with that, I thought capys were the chillest little guys?

Nathalie Jones

Do they have rodent feet or ungulate hoof things?

Nathalie Jones

Thoughts on capybara cafes in Japan and also onsen capybara with oranges?

Amy Sechrist

Do they really get along with alligators/crocodiles? My son sees pictures of them hanging out together.

Princess Persia

How do capybaras protect themselves from predators in the wild, given their relatively gentle nature? What strategies or adaptations contribute to their survival?

Whitney T.

What is the possibility of someone in the US acquiring a pet capybara (without it being exotics trafficking)? Are they domesticated to a degree? Would they do ok in PNW climate?

Sam del Rosario

There were a bunch of duplicates on the Patreon question thread but these are from r/capybara on Reddit: - Do capybaras have object permanence? - Do they get diarrhea from cold weather? (The question poster said they'd heard it from a zookeeper once. ) - Do they ever get physically aggressive with other animals and if so, how do they do in fights?

Sam del Rosario

What is the etymology of "capybara" and is it too late to call them "guinea bigs"?

Rachel Lacov

FTQA: My 5 year old wants to know if they have stinky feet? I guess she’s concerned about their hygiene? Husband wants to know if they have natural predators? Like, they are rodents so I would think they’re considered prey animals, but they’re so big, so maybe not…?

Squirrelmo

Is it true that they only poop while they're in water?

Andrea

FTQA here! :) I'm wondering why are Capybaras so friendly? And is this only seen in captivity, or are wild capybaras just as docile as well? Can't wait for this episode!!

Armando Martinez

How important is the new preserve Manacacías in Colombia to the capybara habitat? Are you familiar with the area?

Kelsey Wood

Has anyone studied the behavioral genetics of why capybaras are so CHILL? Are they that chill or is it a myth? I hope I didn't miss the question deadline!

Pup E. Dog

Do they have capybara wheels ?

Jackie G

What is the fur texture like? It doesn't look soft but I want to think it is.

Danielle Conlon

Where do they fit in the food chain? Like do they only eat plants, or do they eat bugs and other small mammals? And then do they have any natural predators?

Danielle Conlon

Are they at risk of becoming endangered with deforestation in South America?

Danielle Conlon

Do their teeth grow constantly like other rodents (hamsters, beavers, etc.)? Do they chew on things to keep their teeth at a healthy length?

Jazmine Jackson

My school studies countries and at the beginning of the year we choose class names based on our country of study. One 3rd grade class chose the Capybaras this year and their teachers will collect some questions from their students. Looking forward to sharing them here!

Jean Brubeck

There are Lesser capybaras and Greater, are there other versions? They look like huge guinea pigs!

Keegan Newman

What’s up with their sweat glands?

Rachel McGill

Why are most rodents so smol and these guys get to be BIG? What is their evolutionary story?

Amber

Why do they look the way they look?

Isabelle Newman

I heard they taste like fish…is this true??

Nick worth

Are they as friendly as their reputation suggests in the wild? It seems like a bad evolutionary strategy for a prey animal...

Abraham Egnor

How are they friends with everyone?

Aspen 🪿

Why do they look like giant Guinea Pigs, yet have no relation??

Kevin Tiemeyer

I just watched the video of the sounds a mother makes when the babies suckle. How? It's like something out of science fiction.

Disco Ru

How fast can they swim and can they out swim or run predators?

Anna Stamper

Do they like being pet/patted/scratched behind the ears by us humans? They seem like they would just love every species on earth.

Sky Fiolleau

The videos of capybaras riding alligators give me life! Do they actually do this?

Risha

Why are they so fucking cute???

Hazel

Would they make a good pet?

Sweet Chili

Can I have a herd of them for “lawn care”?!?! (It would actually be for pure joy)

fulltimesnake

Do they actually like oranges? There are a lot of videos with them being around oranges???

David Barker

Are there other places in the world outside of South America which might benefit from their introduction or REintroduction if they've been hunted out "recently" ?

Em

FTQA ♥️♥️: Could capybaras become an invasive species in the US?? I’m from Florida and I often hear concerns about the exotic populations here since they have few natural predators

Coleen

I’m sorry Ali this is off-topic. I wish so very much that you were not doing business, accepting advertising from Reese’s peanut butter cups. I haven’t had time to prove all the rest of your advertising supporters, but peanut butter cups uses palm oil in their products! I don’t need to tell you that’s not a good thing!