The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is home to the captivating Cincinnati Zoo Capybara, the world’s largest rodent. These semi-aquatic creatures have captured the hearts of visitors, offering a unique and fascinating glimpse into the natural world. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll delve into the fascinating details of the Cincinnati Zoo Capybara, their exhibit, and the zoo’s information to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable species.
Capybara Facts
Capybaras are truly remarkable creatures. As the world’s largest rodent, these impressive animals can weigh up to 175 pounds and stand up to two feet tall. Hailing from Central and South America, capybaras are well-adapted to their semi-aquatic habitat, with excellent swimming abilities that allow them to stay submerged for up to five minutes.
These social animals are known for their unique communication methods, using a variety of scents and sounds, including clicking, grunting, and squealing, to interact with their group members. Capybaras are also adept at defending themselves, with natural predators such as jaguars and cougars posing a threat to these gentle giants.
Cincinnati Zoo Capybara Exhibit
The Cincinnati Zoo Capybara exhibit is located in the Wildlife Canyon area of the zoo, providing visitors with a chance to observe these fascinating creatures up close. The exhibit was first introduced in 2015, when three capybaras – Cassatot (male), Aqua, and Hydro (brothers) – were brought in from the Little Rock Zoo in Arkansas.
The exhibit features a spacious enclosure with a large pool, allowing the capybaras to showcase their impressive swimming abilities. Visitors can observe the capybaras as they lounge, groom, and interact with one another, offering a unique and educational experience.
Zoo Information
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is located at 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220, and can be reached by phone at 513-281-4700. The zoo’s hours vary by season, so it’s important to check the website for the most up-to-date information.
Admission rates to the Cincinnati Zoo also vary by age and residency, with discounts available for children, seniors, and local residents. Be sure to check the zoo’s website for the current admission rates before planning your visit.
Capybara Status and Nearest Alternative
In 2018, the Cincinnati Zoo Capybara were moved to the Mast farm, a decision made by the zoo’s management. This change in location was likely due to various factors, such as the needs of the capybaras or the zoo’s overall management strategy.
For those seeking an alternative to the Cincinnati Zoo Capybara exhibit, the St. Louis Zoo is a viable option, as it also features capybaras. The St. Louis Zoo is located approximately 5 hours from Cincinnati, making it a reasonable day trip for those interested in seeing these remarkable rodents.
Conclusion
The Cincinnati Zoo Capybara exhibit offers a unique and captivating experience for visitors, allowing them to observe the world’s largest rodent up close. With their impressive size, swimming abilities, and social behaviors, these fascinating creatures are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Whether you’re a local or planning a trip to the Cincinnati area, be sure to add the Cincinnati Zoo Capybara exhibit to your must-see list. With its informative displays and the opportunity to witness these remarkable animals in person, the Cincinnati Zoo Capybara exhibit is a true gem for any zoo enthusiast.