Capybaras — the largest rodents in the world — inhabit throughout South America along riverbanks and swamps, where their neighbors are often caimans, relatives of crocodiles.
Despite their proximity, capybaras rarely become prey for predators: adult caimans almost never touch them, although the young can be vulnerable to many predators, including birds.
Dr. Elizabeth Congdon explains that witnessing caimans hunting capybaras in the wild is a rare occurrence, especially when there is easier prey around, such as fish. The main reason for this peaceful coexistence is the sharp and large front teeth of capybaras: the risk of serious injury simply does not justify the effort expended.
Capybaras 'befriend' not only caimans: birds sit on their backs, turtles bask nearby, and in captivity, they coexist peacefully with a variety of animals.
The greatest threat to these rodents comes from humans: in many regions of South America, they are hunted for their meat, although in recent years, farms for their breeding have emerged. Despite their calm appearance, capybaras can attack pets and humans if provoked — even the friendliest creatures have a limit to their patience.
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