Capybara Love Triangle Unfolds at Edinburgh Zoo

Drama has unfolded at Edinburgh Zoo's capybara enclosure, resembling a 'soap opera' narrative with a love triangle involving two sisters and a single male.

Luna and Cali, two capybara sisters, have both been involved with the same male, Rodney. This complex situation came to light following the unexpected birth of triplets to Luna, revealing Rodney's involvement with both sisters.

The zoo announced the arrival of the triplets, noting that while the initial viral images showed Rodney and Cali together, it is Luna who is pregnant. Staff described the unfolding events as mirroring a dramatic storyline.

Instances of infidelity are not uncommon among capybaras, which originate from South America. These rodents exhibit a polygynous to polygynandrous mating system, where multiple partners are common, and lifelong pairs are rare.

Luna and Cali arrived at Edinburgh Zoo in February 2025. Rodney joined them two months later, and a relationship soon developed between him and Luna. In May, Luna and Rodney welcomed their first offspring, a male named Bru, who was the first capybara born in Scotland in 18 years.

The recent birth of triplets to Luna has added another layer to the developing family dynamics. Darren McGarry, head of animal care at Edinburgh Zoo, commented on the situation, stating that it is "like something from a soap opera." He described Cali as dominant, Luna as more obedient, and Rodney as a “shy boy” who is apparently popular with the females.

Young Bru, the eldest offspring, is reportedly adjusting to no longer being the sole focus of attention following the arrival of his new triplet siblings. McGarry added, "He is a little grumpy for now, but we are sure he will be best buds with his siblings once he settles."

The zoo has not released specific details regarding future parenting arrangements for the triplets, but confirmed they will remain close to their mother. The zoo also noted that capybara pups grow quickly, encouraging visitors to see the new arrivals while they are at their cutest.

IMAGE1:

IMAGE2: Two sisters, Luna and Cali, have been intimate with the same beau to the surprise of all around them - with Rodney's philandering only outed by the unexpected pregnancy of his 'bit on the side'

IMAGE3: The tale of this gripping love triangle first began a few weeks ago when an image went viral of two capybaras enjoying some rather intimate quality time together in a pool. The pair were later revealed to be Rodney and his sister-in-law, Cali

IMAGE4: It's been a busy few months for the Scottish capybara brigade. In May, Luna and Rodney welcomed their baby boy, Bru (pictured), who was Scotland's first capybara to have been born in 18 years

IMAGE5: The zoo have given zero details surrounding future parenting arrangements, though has revealed that the sweet triplets will be 'staying close to mom and taking in the world around them' in the coming weeks

IMAGE6: Sisters Luna and Cali first arrived at Edinburgh Zoo in February 2025 from Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park in Ipswich.

IMAGE7: Bru the six month old capybara inspects a pumpkin with his mother Luna. Young Bru is said to have found the arrival of his new half-siblings particularly tough as he has been forced to 'adjust to no longer being the centre of attention'

Capybara Love Triangle Unfolds at Edinburgh Zoo

A 'soap opera' of infidelity and new arrivals captivates social media from the capybara enclosure.

Sources