14 Unique Behavioral Patterns of Capybaras - The 14th Will Amaze You

2. Aquatic Mastery

Capybaras' swimming behavior is an evolutionary wonder in semi-aquatic adaption having developed over thousands of years. These amazing animals swim for long distances without displaying symptoms of tiredness and can remain underwater for up to five minutes. Their unusual swimming technique consists of keeping their nostrils, eyes, and ears above water in a precisely coordinated movement while using their partially webbed feet in a dog-paddle action.

Scientists have recorded their capacity for floating sleep in which they maintain just sufficient muscular tension to keep their heads above water. Their amazing adaption helps them to control their body temperature in many different climatic environments and elude predators. Capybaras spend almost 60% of their daily activities in or around water bodies, according to research carried out over several South American habitats. This indicates sophisticated behavioral patterns including synchronized group swimming, underwater grazing, and elaborate courtship displays in aquatic environments. One of the most flexible semi-aquatic mammals on Earth, their particular muscle form and respiratory system adaptations help them to move naturally between terrestrial and aquatic habitats.