Origin
Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris is native throughout South America. Capybara were introduced to the United States as escaped pets.

Life Cycle
As the largest rodent, H. hydrochaeris can weight up to 150 lbs (68 kg) and stand 2 ft (0.6 m) in height and 4 ft (1.2 m) in length. H. hydrochaeris are large semi-aquatic herbivores found in freshwater marshes, swamps, rivers, and lakes. Capybara reaches sexual maturity around 1.5 years of age or when they reach weights of 66-88 lbs (30-40 kg). Females generally have 1 litter of 5 pups per year with individuals living in herds.

Distribution
H. hydrochaeris are established in Florida.

Control Efforts
More research is needed on the potential impacts of capybara and its threat to human health, environmental harm, and economic harm.

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/uw438
https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?SpeciesID=2587
 

Selected Images

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Maps

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Invasive Listing Sources

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• Everglades Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area
• Florida Invasive Species Partnership

References

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Common Name Reference: Web Search - http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/classification/Hydrochoerus_hydrochaeris.html
Scientific Name Reference: Web Search - http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/classification/Hydrochoerus_hydrochaeris.html