[citation needed] Currently, this species has expanded its range to parts of Eastern Panama and Western Colombia and Venezuela, just west of the Andes Mountains.

However, during dry seasons when their main source of food is depleted, the lesser capybaras will tend to feed on reeds, grains, melons, and squash.

[4] Although not a main part of their diet, lesser capybaras will also eventually ingest their own feces to gain bacteria that benefits them in breaking down thick fibers eaten.

[5] Compared to other Capybaras, the lesser subspecies are generally smaller in size, with adults growing up to 3 feet (90 cm) in length, weighing up to 62 pounds (28 kg), and having a darker brown coat.

[6] As a result, the capybaras have adapted to be excellent swimmers and dive regularly in water to avoid predators such as jaguars and anacondas.