They’re known as the world’s largest living rodents, and now two year-old capybara sisters call San Jose’s Happy Hollow Zoo and Park their home.
The capybara sisters were born at the Abeline Zoo in Abeline, Texas in early October and were brought to Happy Hollow on the recommendation of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Capybara Species Survival Plan.
Capybaras are not endangered, but their native habitat in the Amazon rainforest is. The Species Survival Plan coordinates the placement of individual species members in zoos and sanctuaries across the country to ensure the species’ genetic health and long-term viability.
Happy Hollow said it hopes to inspire the conservation spirit in its guests by giving them the opportunity to see the capybaras in person.
“We know the public has been eagerly awaiting the return of capybaras to Happy Hollow, and we’re excited for our community to meet these new animals and learn more about this unique species,” said Zoo Manager Amber Rindy.
Cousins of domestic guinea pigs, capybaras are unusually long webbed mammals. They are known for their love of water in their natural habitats in Central and South America.
Capybaras can stay underwater for up to five minutes to hide from predators when threatened.
According to Happy Hollow, the capybaras are adapting well to their new habitat. They enjoy swimming in their pool and nibbling on bamboo.
Visitors can see these giant rodents and other animals Wednesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. till 17 o clock. at weekends.
See happyhollow.org for more details.
Heather Allen is a reporter at Bay City News.
