The Houston Zoo has recently welcomed new capybara babies, adding to the excitement for zoo visitors. These adorable additions to the zoo’s animal family have captured the hearts of many, and we’re excited to share the details about these fascinating creatures.
Names of the Capybara Pups
The Houston Zoo has welcomed two sets of capybara pups in the past year:
| Name | Parents | Birth Date |
|---|---|---|
| Bruno and Pepa | Squirt and Rio | April 11, 2022 |
| Russet, Tater Tot, Spud, and Chip Ali | Poppy and Rio | October 2023 |
Bruno and Pepa were named after characters from the children’s film “Encanto,” while the second litter, Russet, Tater Tot, Spud, and Chip Ali, were named after various types of potatoes, with Chip Ali named after the zoo’s giraffe conservation partner, Dr. Ali.
Public Debut
The capybara pups have been making their public debuts at the Houston Zoo, much to the delight of visitors.
- Bruno and Pepa: These two made their public debut after several days of bonding privately with their mother, Squirt.
- Russet, Tater Tot, Spud, and Chip Ali: The second litter can be seen at the Houston Zoo’s South America’s Pantanal exhibit, where visitors can observe these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.
Capybara Litters at the Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo has a proud history of welcoming capybara pups, with the recent additions being the third litter in the past 10 years.
- Third Litter in 10 Years: Bruno and Pepa were part of the third capybara litter the Zoo has had in the past decade.
- Second Litter for Poppy and Rio: Russet, Tater Tot, Spud, and Chip Ali are the second litter for their parents, Poppy and Rio.
Capybara Facts
Capybaras are fascinating creatures, and the Houston Zoo’s new additions are a great opportunity to learn more about them.
- Native to Central and South America: Capybaras are the largest rodent in the world, related to guinea pigs, and can weigh up to 150 pounds.
- Physical Characteristics: Capybara pups are born with fur, open eyes, and a full set of teeth. They grow and learn quickly and are excellent swimmers with webbed feet.
- Behavior: Capybaras can live in groups of up to 40 individuals and are strong swimmers. They communicate with each other through a variety of scents and vocalizations.
Visiting the Houston Zoo
If you’re planning a visit to the Houston Zoo, be sure to check out the South America’s Pantanal exhibit to catch a glimpse of the new capybara pups.
- Location: The capybaras can be found in the Zoo’s South America’s Pantanal exhibit, in the grasslands habitat.
- Conservation Efforts: By visiting the Houston Zoo, you’re supporting the protection of wild capybara families in Brazil through the zoo’s conservation partners.
The Houston Zoo’s new capybara pups are a delightful addition to the zoo’s animal family, and they’re sure to captivate visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or a first-time visitor, these adorable creatures are a must-see during your next trip to the Houston Zoo.