11. **Unexpected Alliances: Capybaras and Tapirs**
Two South American species that frequently share similar habitats—capybaras and tapirs—perhaps have the most unusual friendship seen. Often sharing water sources and foraging sites, these animals have been noted establishing friendly relationships in both wild and confined environments. Their interaction shows how diverse species with like environment preferences could create cooperative actions. The fact that the tapirs live alone makes their acceptance of capybaras especially fascinating since it implies that the peaceful attitude of the rodents may overcome even the most independent behavior of other animals. Often involving synchronized eating habits and common wallowing areas, this cooperation demonstrates how many animals could modify their actions to facilitate harmonious coexistence.
