Capybaras

Capybaras are the world's largest living rodents, growing up to 140 pounds, or the size of a large dog. They are semi-aquatic animals from South America, frequently living in or near swamps. They generally live in groups of 10-20. Females are slightly larger than males.

Capybaras can be adopted as pets, though they are difficult pets. They are very dominant, and usually will not be submissive to a human. Some people call them "giant hamsters," and it's believed that the best veterinary care you can get for a capy is an exotic vet who's worked with hamsters a lot.

Because of their need to swim, sharp teeth, special dietary requirements and other hardships, sometimes capybaras escape from captivity or are set loose. Introduced capys are known to be in wet areas of Florida and California.

Capybaras could be the inspiration behind "The Princess Bride's" Rodents of Unusual Size, of which the movie's Man in Black claimed, "I don't think they exist." However, although capybaras have very sharp teeth, the ROUS animals in the film bear little resemblance to real capybaras.