Four capybaras born at Abilene Zoo

The Abilene Zoo announced the birth of four capybaras, with Zoo staff in a statement reportedly “thrilled to welcome the new additions.”

Capybaras are a giant rodent native to South America and are the largest living rodent.

Guinea pigs are a close relative.

The pups were born Sept. 15. The event represents the first time the Abilene Zoo has had a capybara birth.

The pups are currently in their habitat with their parents, ready to meet guests to the zoo’s South America exhibit.

Animal Care Supervisor Ryan King said patrons should plan to meet the babies as soon as possible because capybaras grow quickly.

At birth each tipped the scales at almost three pounds and measured 11-13 inches in length.

“This is a healthy size for the pups,” King said.

Full-grown capybaras can weigh anywhere from 70 to 150 pounds and can stand 2 feet tall at the shoulder.

According to the Abilene Zoo’s website, they are vocal animals, communicating using “yelps, barks, huffs and purrs.”

In the wild, they eat aquatic plants, fruits and tree bark, which makes them herbivores. 

Resembling tailless beavers, their scientific name, Hydrochoerus Hydrochaeris, means “water pig,” and they can be found in swampy, grassy regions bordering rivers, lakes and streams.

Webbed and duck-like feet make them excellent swimmers, and they can stay submerged in water for up to five minutes.

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Brian Bethel covers city and county government and general news for the Abilene Reporter-News.  If you appreciate locally driven news, you can support local journalists with a digital subscription to ReporterNews.com.