National Capybara Day

Join in on the fun and celebrate the world largest, and also most affectionate, rodent – the capybara. That’s right, folks, it’s time for National Capybara Day!

How to Celebrate National Capybara Day

Learn Fun Facts About Capybaras

One of the best ways to get involved with this special day is to improve your knowledge base about this interesting animal.

Do some research online, head over to the library to check out a book, or just get started by taking a look at a few of these fun facts about capybaras: 

• Capybaras are most well-known for their friendly nature, relaxed demeanor and willingness to be social with many other species – including predators
• Capybaras typically weigh between 77 and 146 pounds 
• These creatures are semi-aquatic and can hold their breath for up to five minutes underwater in the marshes, grasslands and bodies of water where they live 
• Highly socials, capybaras live in groups, sometimes reaching numbers up to 100 during the dry season 

Visit Some Capybaras

Although these animals are native to the southern hemisphere, you don’t have to go to South America to find them.

In fact, many zoos located all over the world will have some capybaras on display that you can visit and enjoy.

Typically kept in pairs, you might be able to find them at zoos in San Diego (California), Columbus (Ohio), Chicago (Illinois), Edinburgh (Scotland), London (England), and many other places. 

Host a Capybara Appreciation Party

Those who love this animal might want to host a little gathering in honor of this day. Invite friends to dress up in a costume resembling a capybara.

Provide music and snacks with a South American theme as a nod to their homeland. And for entertainment, watch a capybara documentary or nature show. 

Get Others Involved

Since capybaras are social creatures, you can be too on this day! Get on those social media accounts and share about the day, inviting others to join you in the celebration of National Capybara Day.

Make a photo or video post of your favorite capybara capture and get others to “ooo” and “ahh” over their extreme cuteness! 

Watch a Capybara on Screen

Even if you can’t visit one in person, you can still check out some capybara footage in celebration of the day. Check out The Giant Capybara, a short documentary from 1995, to learn from 15 years worth of research.

Or try the four part documentary series from 2021-2022 called Animal, which features one full part on capybaras. 

For those who are interested in the more animated cuteness of this animal, take a look at the 2021 Disney movie, Encanto, which features the minor character called Chispi.

History of National Capybara Day

Also referred to as National Capybara Appreciation Day, this event was started in the 20-teens as a grassroots movement of fans and enthusiasts who just love this delightfully peaceful animal.

This annual occasion is meant to celebrate, raise awareness about and generally just show appreciation for this fascinating creature that mostly lives in various parts of South America.