Zoo Welcomes Capybara Triplets Amidst 'Soap Opera' Love Triangle
Edinburgh Zoo announced the birth of three capybara pups, revealing a complex family dynamic involving the parents and their aunt.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s Edinburgh Zoo is celebrating the arrival of three capybara triplets, born to parents Luna and Rodney. The healthy newborns were discovered on Wednesday morning, with keepers noting they are progressing well. A full health check in the coming weeks will determine their genders and allow for official naming.
In a surprising twist, the zoo revealed that the triplets’ birth has illuminated a dramatic love triangle within the capybara enclosure. A recent social media post from the zoo highlighted a popular photo of two capybaras in a pool, initially thought to be Luna and Rodney. However, it was later confirmed that the pair in the image were Rodney and Luna’s sister, Cali. This revelation led to the zoo’s playful announcement: "But there’s a plot twist… that steamy pool moment was Rodney and Cali, but it’s actually Luna who’s pregnant! Looks like Rodney’s been keeping busy with both sisters…"
Darren McGarry, head of animal care at Edinburgh Zoo, commented on the capybaras' social dynamics, describing them as akin to a soap opera. "Capys might look cute and innocent but honestly, their lives are like something from a soap opera," McGarry stated. He added that Cali appears to be the dominant figure in the habitat, with Luna generally following her lead. McGarry also noted Rodney’s somewhat shy demeanor, despite his apparent popularity with both sisters, humorously remarking, "Like they say, it is always the quiet ones."
These new arrivals follow the birth of Bru in May, who was noted as the first capybara born in Scotland in 18 years. The zoo expressed delight in watching the triplets, who are described as adorably exploring their surroundings while staying close to their mother.