Reid Park Zoo is once again home to a capybara as “Chocolate” has recently arrived in Tucson from the Montgomery Zoo.
“She’s a very small capybara and is a bit shy,” said Director of Animal Care Adam Ramsey. “Guests can visit Chocolate in the capybara habitat in the South America loop. Take your time when trying to spot her, especially while she is settling in and getting to know her new home.”
Chocolate is just over a year and a half old, and will be sharing a habitat with the Zoo’s black-necked swans and crested screamer. Her care team has noted that she loves the water and umbrella grass.
Reid Park Zoo is working with the capybara Species Survival Plan to bring a companion for Chocolate to the Zoo.
Capybaras can be found in diverse habitats near bodies of water throughout much of South America. Their closest relatives include cavies, maras, and both wild and domestic guinea pigs. Wild capybara populations are threatened by deforestation, habitat destruction, and illegal poaching for their meat. You can help Chocolate’s wild cousins by being an informed consumer.