Hunting the Capivaras

Olivia had found these critters at the lake before so we got on our bikes and went a hunting. 

Capivaras is the português name, so referred to as capabara in English. They are the largest of the rodent family and can weigh up to 91kgs and are found in a bunch of places around South America. Living in both water and on land.

I wasn't sure where we would see them, in the scrubs? Under the trees? And then there they were floating in the water!

We found them!!!! YES!

Loved the front guy covered in slime !

Olivia's boyfriend Rios told us that they actually take the Capitvatas away from the lake when there get to be too many because people EAT THEM! These crazy Brazilians. Although I must say they do have a fair bit of meat on them.

This one got out for a walk about

Roll over, Roll over...

Was so stoked to find this little guys, and they were excellent entertainment for some time. We bought a fresh coconut to enjoy well we watched them. 

The man selling coconuts came over because he thought that we were watching birds (they like to eat the coconut meat) but then laughed and laughed at the Capivatas. He made a noise that gave them a fright and they all dived under the water and swam away SO quickly. Mr. Coconut man swore that he did nothing..

Luckily after a few minutes they appeared out from under the scrubs into view again.

Later this same day we saw dolphins swimming at Ipanema Beach - apparently a very rare sighting here in Brazil! So was very lucky!