Capybara family grows at Asunción Zoo with three new arrivals

The Asunción Zoo is celebrating the arrival of three new capybara pups, born on July 4. This brings the total capybara population at the zoo to 10 individuals, marking the fourth litter born in captivity. The zoo's veterinary team is closely monitoring the newborns, ensuring they are accepted and well-fed by their mother.

Veterinarian Estela Espínola explained that the pups are currently on a diet of mother's milk and are beginning to transition to solid foods. Their diet will consist of alfalfa, grass, seasonal fruits, and vegetables like pumpkin. This gradual introduction supports the species' natural herbivorous diet.

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They manage quite well since they were born. They are monitored 24 hours a day because we work in three shifts. They are observed, controlled; the veterinary area is permanently verifying, first, if the mother accepts and feeds them well, if the others do not attack them. Those cares are taken with them at birth, then they easily adapt to the herd and to the other species that live with them.

While capybaras are known for their calm and sociable nature, the zoo maintains a strict policy against direct contact between visitors and the animals. This measure is in place to protect the capybaras' well-being, preventing them from receiving unsuitable food and minimizing stress from human interaction. Espínola recalled past incidents where visitors harmed the animals or fed them inappropriate items.

The zoo is prepared for future births, with adequate spaces available for relocating animals if necessary. The current breeding success indicates a healthy environment for the capybara family within the zoo's care.

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We don't want them to be sociable because previously, when this gate wasn't here, people would come in and hurt them with sticks to make them pay attention, they would give them improper products.