Capybaras and nutrias may look alike at first glance, but they are definitely not the same animal! They differ in size, temperament, regardless of appearance, habitats, and social attitudes towards them.
In this blog article, we’re going to take a look at the main differences between a capybara vs nutria, so let’s get started!
What is a Capybara?
The capybara is the largest rodent in the world, weighing in at 150 pounds and 4 feet long. Capybaras are social animals from South America and prefer to live near rivers, lakes, and wetlands. They are friendly and very calm; they even sometimes rest peacefully with birds and monkeys! Capybaras are primarily grazers, eating grass, hay, and various plants.
What is a Nutria?
Nutria (or coypu) are also a smaller rodent from South America; nutria are about 2 feet long, weighing 15–20 pounds. Nutria live near the water, and are also good swimmers. Nutria were introduced into the United States for fur, but in many areas have become an invasive species. Nutria are thought of as pests in areas where they can destroy plants, wetlands, and water banks.
📊 Capybara vs Nutria: Comparison
| Feature | Capybara | Nutria |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Larger (up to 150 lbs) | Smaller (up to 20 lbs) |
| Length | Up to 4 feet | Around 2 feet |
| Tail | No visible tail | Long, thin rat-like tail |
| Feet | Webbed feet | Partially webbed feet |
| Temperament | Gentle and social | Can be aggressive or shy |
| Native To | South America | South America |
| Found In U.S.? | Rare, mostly pets or zoos | Yes, wild in some states |
| Domesticated? | Sometimes as exotic pets | Wild and invasive |
| Legal to Own? | Legal in some places with permit | Illegal in many states due to being invasive |
| Eats | Grasses and plants | Crops, roots, aquatic plants |
🧠 Key Differences Explained
1. Size
- Capybaras are considerably larger than nutrias. A fully grown capybara can weigh as much as a large dog. On the other hand, a nutria is more comparable to a house cat.
2. Tail
- There is also one notable visual difference between the two animals, which is their tails.
- Capybaras have no visible tails.
- Nutrias have a long, round, and rat like tail.
3. Behavior
- Capybaras tend to be calm, peaceful and social animals.
- Nutrias can be more nervy or aggressive, especially if they feel threatened.
4. Habitat
- Both animals have a love for water; however, nutrias have become a bigger problem in the U.S. because they do harm the environment.
- Capybaras are not an invasive species and you will even see them at a zoo or being kept as exotic pets.
5. Legality
- In some places you can own a capybara as long as you get a permit and have everything set up correctly.
- Nutrias as pets are illegal in many areas due to being considered an invasive species.
🏡 Which One Makes a Better Pet?
If you’re thinking about a pet:
- Capybaras can be decent pets if someone is willing to have plenty of space, an area where they can swim, and has enough time to properly care for them. You will need to get a permit anyway.
- Nutria such as these are not good pets. In most places it’s illegal to have them in captivity and they can be aggressive or destructive.
🌎 Why Nutrias Are a Problem in the U.S.
Nutria were imported into the U.S. for the fur trade, but escaped into the wild. They are now established in several states including Louisiana, Florida, and Maryland. Nutria will:
- Consume native plants
- Damage marshes and wet edges
- Reduce fish and bird habitat
Because of these attributes, states are trying trying to eradicate or control nutria populations.
✅ Summary: Capybara vs Nutria
| Topic | Capybara | Nutria |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Huge (dog-sized) | Medium (cat-sized) |
| Tail | No tail | Long tail |
| Friendly? | Yes | Not always |
| Pet? | Sometimes | Usually no |
| Legal in U.S.? | In some states with permit | Often illegal |
| Behavior | Calm and peaceful | Can be destructive |
| Wild in U.S.? | No | Yes, invasive |
📝 Final Thoughts
Capybaras and nutria (also known as coypu) can appear to be similar animals, but there are many differences between the two. Capybaras are the largest rodent and are very tame-by design and nature–, can sometimes be kept as pets with a little more care than a dog. Nutria on the other hand, is not thought of as a pet (they are actually easier to raise as a pet) and has been negative in multiple ways and as a result in many countries now referred to as a pest because nutria do tremendous destruction to nature!
If you’re thinking about keeping a capybara as a pet check on local laws, the right physical space and setup, and readiness to commit to care! In the matter of nutria, stay away from them if you see them in the wild and call animal control.
