10th July Capybara Appreciation Day

I can't believe I missed posting this, but given I'd done it I will post it now.

Capybaras are the largest rodents, living exclusively in South America, near water. They are semiaquatic like beavers, but twice as big. They even have partially webbed toes. They are herbivores with large front teeth that are continuously growing.

You can even see capybaras at Taronga Zoo which I think is exciting given South America is far away.

The reason for including this blog entry is because believe it or not there are picture books that feature capybaras!

Start with some nonfiction so you learn all about these unfamiliar animals.

Then have fun with these stories:

• Untitled by Timothy Young. This book will really make you smile. A coatimundi, another South American animal and a capybara are stuck in a book with no plot, wishing they had a title, a better author, and a better illustrator, and hoping something exciting will happen.

• The Capybaras by Alfredo Soderguit . To the hens, capybaras are too hairy, too wet, and too big. They don’t even follow the rules! But it’s hunting season, and the capybaras need refuge. A tale of friendship, acceptance, teamwork and compassion.

• Capybara is Friends with Everyone by Maddie Frost

My name is Capybara and I think it’s important to be a great friend. Take it from me, I have 4,382 friends!

Capybara will do anything for his friends. But it’s exhausting—and when Capybara meets a potential new friend who doesn’t seem to be responding to his advances, Capybara learns a valuable lesson. Just perfect for social and emotional learning.

• I Am a Capybara  by Michela Fabbri

A capybara is not a mouse or a beaver or a bear and has all sorts of surprising traits to discover. this capybara speaks candidly about his experiences and feelings, and he likes to find common ground with others, like his best friend, a little bird. He may appear to be a tough guy, but he still likes cuddles and affection. This tale reveals the wonders to be discovered by trying new things, learning about someone you don't know, and embracing community and family.