The Akron Zoo is thrilled to announce the birth on March 24, 2010 of two capybara babies. Mother capy', Courtney, and the two babies are now on exhibit in the Zoo’s Legends of the Wild. The capybaras will be on exhibit daily as long as the temperature is above 65 degrees and conditions are favorable. The capybara's scientific name hydrochaeris is Greek for "Water Hog" and they live up to it!

Submarine Capy!

Courtney had given birth to five babies but unfortunately two died during birth. Unfortunately this is not uncommon as mortality of capybara babies is high. A third capybara suffered a dislocated hip during birth and was moved into the Zoo’s Animal Hospital immediately. A procedure to repair the hip was performed on April 12, but regrettably the capybara baby passed away the following day.

Capybaras are the world's largest rodent. Their name originates from the Guarani word Kapiyva, which means “master of the grasses.” Capybara are semi-aquatic mammals found wild in much of South America in densely forested areas near bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, swamps, ponds and marshes. They are usually found in large groups of between 10 and 20 individuals and live along rivers and marsh areas. Capybara populations are stable throughout most of their South American ranges, although in some areas hunting has reduced their numbers.