Edinburgh Zoo welcomes three capybara pups amid family drama

Edinburgh Zoo has announced the birth of three capybaras amidst some family drama involving the father and the mother’s sister.

Keepers at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland were surprised to find three new pups in the capybara habitat after they were born overnight on October 28 to parents Luna and Rodney.

The trio are said to be doing well and sticking close to their mum for now.

Keepers will perform a health check in a few weeks, at which time the genders will be confirmed and names chosen.

Capybaras can breed several times a year, with Luna and Rodney having welcomed a baby boy, Bru, in May, the first capybara born in Scotland in 18 years.

Keepers say Bru is less than impressed with the new arrivals and no longer being the centre of attention.

The three pups have not been named, and their gender is unknown until keepers carry out health checks. RZSS

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 be best buds with his siblings once he settles.”

The birth comes amid some family drama within the capybara habitat, as a photo of two capybaras sharing an intimate moment in the pool went viral, only to be revealed to be Rodney and Luna’s sister Cali.

Mr McGarry added: “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.”