Two baby capybaras have arrived at Edinburgh Zoo, marking the first time the zoo has had the species in 15 years.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) announced the seven-month-old siblings had arrived after travelling from Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park in Ipswich to their new home in the capital.
The wildlife conservation charity that runs the zoo said the youngsters, who are yet to be named, will stay indoors for their first few days to settle in but will be around in time for the February half-term.
![Two female capybaras, aged seven months, arrived at Edinburgh Zoo.<br>”/><cite class=cite>Royal Zoological Society of Scotland</cite></div><figcaption aria-hidden=true>Two female capybaras, aged seven months, arrived at Edinburgh Zoo.<br> <cite class=hidden>Royal Zoological Society of Scotland</cite></figcaption></figure><p>It added that the “charming” new additions to the zoo will offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the South American mammals, known for their gentle nature and social behaviour.</p><p>Capybaras, which are the largest rodents in the world, have quickly become a favourite among animal lovers worldwide.</p><p>Darren McGarry, head of living collections at RZSS, expressed his excitement over the zoo’s first capybara in over 15 years.</p><figure class=wp-block-image><div class=relative><img loading=lazy decoding=async src=https://news.stv.tv/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7626fda3ea1df3801fc0c3aafe242817-1739185891.jpg width=1482 height=1246 srcset=](https://news.stv.tv/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/fc9aab241434183a88450227b8fef5c8-1739185823.jpg)
“Our two young females are getting used to their new home and are already showing the keepers their inquisitive little personalities,” he said.
“We hope visitors will still be able to spot them while they’re staying inside for the first few days.”
Jimmy Doherty, founder and CEO of Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park, described the capybara pups as “inquisitive and friendly”.
“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!”
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