-are mammals
-are the largest living rodents
-live in South America but there have been sightings in Florida and California
-herbivores
-are relatives to guinea pigs and chinchillas
-have reddish-brown fur on the upper part of its body that turns yellowish-brown underneath
-eat grasses as well as fruit and tree bark
-predators include big cats (jaguars and pumas), eagles, caimans, and green anacondas
-are commonly found in groups of around 10–20 individuals
-are excellent swimmers, and can remain completely submerged for up to five minutes. They can sleep in water, keeping only their noses out.