12 Adorable Characteristics That Will Make You Fall in Love with Capybaras - #7 Is Absolutely Heart-Melting!

3. Exceptional Swimming Abilities

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Don't let their strong physique deceive you; capybaras are quite elegant swimmers. Their particular physical adaptations—slightly webbed feet, high-set eyes, and nostrils that may close underwater—clearly show their semi-aquatic character. These incredible animals can hold their breath for up to five minutes and hide from predators and cool off in water. Their swimming is not only useful; it's rather beautiful to see them glide over the lake with the grace of professional athletes. Almost almost away after birth, young capybaras follow their mothers into the water with natural confidence and skill. Their survival depends critically on their aquatic skills, which enable them to flee terrestrial predators and reach food supplies in and around water bodies. Often sleeping partially immersed, capybaras are so comfy in the water that their nose alone keeps above the surface. Apart from keeping them cool, this unusual behaviour offers a secure refuge from possible dangers. Some human swimmers, who study the elegant and effective motions of the capybara in the water, have even been inspired by their swimming ability.