What’s in the water? Edinburgh Zoo celebrates birth of three capybara pups

Keepers are celebrating the birth of three baby capybara pups at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s (RZSS) Edinburgh Zoo. The pups were spotted on October 28 after being born overnight to parents Luna and Rodney.

The youngsters are doing well and are sticking close to their mum for now. They will have their first health check in the coming weeks at which point keepers will find out their genders and choose their names.

Capybaras are the world’s largest rodents and can breed several times a year. The wildlife conservation charity’s last pup was internet sensation Bru, born in May. He was the first capybara to be born in Scotland in 18 years.

Darren McGarry, head of animal care at Edinburgh Zoo, said: “The triplets are adorable, exploring their new home while staying close to mum and taking in the world around them. It is wonderful to watch. 

"Bru is adjusting to no longer being the centre of attention. He is a little grumpy for now but we are sure he will but best buds with his siblings once he settles.” 

The birth of the triplets follows several scandals in the capybara habitat. A photograph of two capybaras in the pool went viral on social media, with the zoo only recently revealing that this intimate scene was shared between Rodney and Cali, Luna’s sister.

Darren said: “Capys might look cute and innocent but honestly, their lives are like something from a soap opera. Cali rules the roost and Luna does as she is told. Bru is the golden child. Rodney is a bit of a shy boy - but he is clearly a hit with the ladies! Like they say, it is always the quiet ones.”

Visitors looking to visit Edinburgh Zoo and meet the new brood can book tickets online