Hey reader, I’m Hugo, the Marketing Intern at Sydney Zoo! I’m on a mission to review all the amazing animal encounters available at the zoo and provide insight into what makes each experience so special and unique. Join me on my journey as I meet a range of animals, large and small, and offer an insider view of the encounters at Sydney Zoo.
The title ‘world’s largest rodent’ probably doesn’t sound super enticing to most people, however, capybaras have quickly become one of the most adored animals on the internet. Widely considered the most relaxed animal in the zoo, how could I pass up an opportunity to chill with them.
Walking through the habitat, we were followed by a herd of chirpy capybaras, who seemed aware that people usually arrived with food. Our encounter guide explained how capybaras will eat basically any vegetation they can get their teeth on, but their favorite snacks include celery and bamboo. Sanchez (pictured below) is the only male in the herd and slightly introverted compared to the rest of the capybaras. After being fed, he wandered away from us and kept a watchful side-eye until it was time for back scratches.
The part I found most interesting about the capybaras was the texture of their fur, it is coarse and bristly and feels surprisingly similar to a broom. Like people, capybaras are quite fond of a good massage. A scratch on the back or under the chin will cause all their fur to stand up like they had been given an electric shock.
As the encounter came to an end, I could easily see how capybaras have become such a beloved animal. Their calm nature and quirky personalities make them very entertaining to be around. Whether they're following you in search of snacks or enjoying a well-earned scratch, spending time with these cute rodents is an experience I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Sydney Zoo.
To book a Capybara Encounter or for more information, please click here: Capybara Encounter