Rīga Zoo is experiencing a capybara baby boom. In September 2025, the zoo’s capybara population swelled from three to eight with the birth of five new pups – three males and two females.
Naming the New Arrivals
Zoo officials have announced it is time to name the new capybaras. Residents are invited to submit name suggestions via the zoo’s Facebook or Instagram pages. The zoo will consider all ideas until January 31st, ultimately selecting names that reflect each baby’s personality.
The increased capybara family is benefitting from extended live stream viewing, made possible by support from “Bite Latvija.” Viewers can observe the capybaras’ daily lives online, with the cameras only temporarily offline between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. for enclosure cleaning.
The extended live stream is particularly important as capybaras prefer warmer temperatures and spend the winter months indoors.
The zoo’s decision to solicit public input on naming the capybaras could further strengthen community engagement and investment in the animals’ well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
When were the capybara babies born?
The first baby was born in September 2025, with four more arriving in the weeks that followed.
How can I submit a name suggestion?
Name suggestions can be submitted in the comments section of Rīga Zoo’s Facebook or Instagram pages.
When will the names be chosen?
Rīga Zoo will select the names after January 31st.
Will the zoo continue to offer the live stream beyond the winter months? It is possible the zoo may continue the live stream even after the weather warms, depending on its popularity and available resources.
