EDINBURGH Zoo has brought in two capybaras just in time for the February half-term.
The adorable additions are known for their gentle nature and social behaviour.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), the wildlife conservation charity that operates Edinburgh Zoo, is giving the two animals time to settle while they stay indoors for the first few days.
Darren McGarry, head of living collections at RZSS, said: “It is so exciting to have capybara at the zoo for the first time in over 15 years.
“Our two young females are getting used to their new home and are already showing the keepers their inquisitive little personalities. We hope visitors will still be able to spot them while they’re staying inside for the first few days.”
The two seven-month-old siblings, not yet named, travelled from Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park in Ipswich to their new home in the capital.
Jimmy Doherty, founder and CEO of Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, said, “Our inquisitive and friendly capybara pups are set to begin an exciting new chapter as they move to their new home at Edinburgh Zoo.
“These little explorers have brought so much joy to everyone here and whilst we’ll miss their playful antics, we know they’re ready for their next adventure. We can’t wait for visitors at Edinburgh Zoo to fall in love with them just as we have!”
Capybaras are the largest rodents in the world and have had a meteoric rise in popularity in recent years due to online meme culture.
The semi-aquatic creatures are typically found in Brazil, Venezuela, Columbia, Argentina and other South American countries. They live up to seven years and typically weigh around 65kg.
