There’s a new litter of pups at the Cape May County Zoo — but not the kind you might be used to.
The zoo welcomed a litter of capybara pups earlier this month, the second litter born at the zoo this year to parents Mikey and Budette. The pups’ gender is currently unknown, as mom Budette is keeping them close to her, the zoo said in an announcement.
Budette will keep the pups inside with her until “more reasonable springtime temperature,” the zoo said. But those excited to sneak a peak can find updates on the zoo’s Facebook page.
Capybaras are the world’s largest rodent, growing to between 60 and 175 pounds, and are known as very proficient swimmers. They usually eat grass, melons, and squash, and live in families of up to 30 members.
In addition to the four capybaras, a set of cotton-topped tamarins, a critically endangered species of small primate, were born at the zoo in June. And in 2020, the zoo welcomed a baby zebra.
Although the capybara pups won’t be on display until the weather is warmer, the zoo is open year round daily with plenty of other adorable animals viewable.
These two capybaras, who were born at the Cape May County Zoo in June, welcomed two siblings this month when mom Budette gave birth to twin pups.(Cape May County Zoo)
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Katie Kausch may be reached at kkausch@njadvancemedia.com. Tell us your coronavirus story or send a tip here.