The Cape May County Park and Zoo announced the birth of another litter of capybara pups. It was Marigold’s turn to give birth to her second litter. She gave birth on June 18 to six healthy pups. They are under careful watch from the animal keepers and veterinary staff.
Earlier this year, Buttercup gave birth to her second litter of pups as well. Marigold and the pups will be able to be seen periodically from the bridge at the capybara habitat, but they will be off habitat occasionally to give them some respite from crowds and weather. You are also likely to spot Marigold’s sister, Buttercup, with her two pups, as well as the pups from last year. The Zoo recommends arriving before 3:30 p.m., since that is typically when the keepers bring the moms and their pups into the building for the night.
“This is a very unique situation to have two litters of capybara pups so close to one another,” said Cape May County Commissioner Vice-Director Andrew Bulakowski, who also is liaison to the Cape May County Park and Zoo. “We know families will enjoy seeing the growing family of pups now and in the future.”
Capybaras are native to South America and are semi-aquatic rodents. They are the largest of the rodent family and are found in forested areas near bodies of water, such as lakes, swamps, or rivers. Capybaras typically weigh between 75 and 150 pounds, with females being slightly heavier than males. They are a highly social species and can form large groups to live in. Pups are up and walking within hours of being born and start eating grass as early as 1 week. However, pups will continue to suckle for about 16 weeks.
The Cape May County Parks and Zoo are open daily. The Parks are open from 7 a.m. to dusk, and the Zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CMCZoo.com
