Nutria vs. Capybara: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 6, 2023
Nutria are semi-aquatic rodents native to South America but found in various parts of the world, while Capybaras are the largest rodents globally, also native to South America.
Key Differences
Nutria and Capybara both hail from South America and are semi-aquatic rodents. However, they belong to different families within the rodent order. Nutrias are smaller and belong to the family Myocastoridae, while Capybaras are part of the Caviidae family.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
In terms of size, the Nutria typically measures about 1 foot in body length, with a tail of a similar length. On the other hand, the Capybara is much larger, often reaching up to 4.5 feet in length and weighing as much as 145 pounds.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Another distinguishing characteristic is their teeth. Nutrias possess sharp, orange-tinted incisors, while Capybaras have squared-off snouts with less pronounced teeth that aren't distinctly colored.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Behaviorally, Nutrias are often more aggressive than the relatively docile Capybara. While both animals live in social groups, Capybaras are known for their peaceful nature and often coexist harmoniously with other animals.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Lastly, while both Nutria and Capybara have been sought for their fur and meat, the introduction of Nutria to non-native areas has led to them being seen as invasive pests, damaging water systems and competing with native species. Capybaras, in contrast, haven’t been as widespread and remain largely in their native habitats.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Status
Often seen as invasive in non-native regions
Largely remain in native habitats
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Nutria and Capybara Definitions
Nutria
A rodent that has caused ecological concern due to its invasive nature in non-native regions.
In some states, efforts are ongoing to control the Nutria population.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
Capybara
The largest rodent in the world, native to South America.
The Capybara can weigh as much as a large dog.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Nutria
A semi-aquatic rodent, native to South America, introduced to other regions.
The Nutria, with its webbed feet, is an efficient swimmer.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Capybara
An animal with a squared-off snout and webbed feet.
The Capybara's feet make it an adept swimmer.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
Nutria
A mammal prized for its fur in the fashion industry.
Vintage coats made from Nutria fur were once quite popular.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Capybara
A social animal that often resides in large groups.
A group of Capybaras is often called a 'herd'.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Nutria
A species also known as coypu, resembling a large rat.
From a distance, the Nutria might be mistaken for an oversized rat.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Capybara
A semi-aquatic mammal known for its docile nature.
Children in some South American villages play near Capybaras without fear.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Nutria
A large semiaquatic rodent (Myocastor coypus) native to South America, having webbed feet and a long tail. It is widely raised for fur and has formed wild populations especially in the southern United States.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 06, 2022
Capybara
A herbivore often found grazing near freshwater sources.
You can often see Capybaras grazing by the riverbanks at dusk.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Capybara
A large semiaquatic rodent (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) of tropical South America, having short limbs and a vestigial tail and often attaining lengths of more than 1.2 meters (4 feet).
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 06, 2022
Capybara
A semi-aquatic South American rodent, Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris, the largest living rodent.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 06, 2022
Capybara
A large South American rodent (Hydrochærus capybara) Living on the margins of lakes and rivers. It is the largest extant rodent, being about three feet long, and half that in height. It somewhat resembles the Guinea pig, to which it is related; - called also cabiai and water hog.
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 06, 2022
Capybara
Pig-sized tailless South American amphibious rodent with partly webbed feet; largest living rodent
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 06, 2022
Nutria
Aquatic South American rodent resembling a small beaver; bred for its fur
Sawaira Riaz
Dec 06, 2022
Nutria
A herbivore primarily feeding on aquatic plants and roots.
The wetlands are home to the Nutria, where it feeds on plant matter.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
FAQs
How big can a Capybara grow?
A Capybara can grow up to 4.5 feet in length and weigh as much as 145 pounds.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
What is a Nutria?
Nutria is a semi-aquatic rodent, originally from South America but found in various parts of the world.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Why are Nutrias considered pests in some regions?
Nutrias, in non-native regions, can damage water systems and compete with local species, making them invasive.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Are Nutria and Capybara related?
Both are rodents, but they belong to different families; Nutria to Myocastoridae and Capybara to Caviidae.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Can Capybaras be kept as pets?
While some people keep Capybaras as pets, they require a lot of space, water access, and have specific care needs.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Are Capybaras social animals?
Yes, Capybaras often live in groups and are social creatures.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
Are Capybaras aggressive?
Capybaras are generally docile and have a calm demeanor.
Janet White
Oct 03, 2023
What is the lifespan of a Nutria?
In the wild, Nutrias can live up to 8-10 years.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Do Nutrias have natural predators?
Yes, alligators, snakes, and various birds of prey are known to prey on Nutrias.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
What sound does a Capybara make?
Capybaras produce a variety of sounds, including purrs, barks, and whistles.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
Is Nutria fur used in clothing?
Yes, Nutria fur was once popular in the fashion industry for making coats.
Harlon Moss
Oct 03, 2023
How fast can a Nutria run?
Despite their bulky appearance, Nutrias can run quite fast, especially when escaping threats.
Sara Rehman
Oct 03, 2023
Are Nutrias good swimmers?
Yes, with their webbed feet, Nutrias are efficient swimmers.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 03, 2023
Where can one typically find a Capybara in the wild?
Capybaras are typically found near freshwater sources in South America.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
How do Capybaras communicate?
Capybaras communicate using vocalizations, body language, and scent marking.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
How do Capybaras keep cool?
Capybaras often wallow in mud or water to regulate their body temperature.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 03, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
