The Bedtime Scientist

Episode guide

Capybaras: The Masters of Stillness

The world's largest rodent is also its most relaxed. This episode sits very still beside the capybara and learns what it knows.

The science, gently

  • Capybaras are excellent swimmers and can doze in the water with just their noses out.
  • Other animals, from birds to monkeys, rest on and around them because they are so calm.
  • They live in friendly groups and spend much of the day simply lounging together.

Wonder together

  • Why do you think other animals trust the capybara?
  • What is your best lounging position, honestly?
  • Who is the calmest creature in your family?

Tonight's calm-down

Do the capybara float: body loose, nose free, eyes half closed, absolutely unbothered. Whatever the river of the day carried, it can flow on past. You are busy being still.