Clearwater Marine Aquarium is bringing back one of its most popular summer attractions—capybaras. Beginning Memorial Day weekend, guests can visit “Capybara Chillout,” which runs May 24 through July 20, and features a new family of four 9-week-old capybaras.
The exhibit is presented in partnership with Amazing Animals and is included with general admission. Visitors can watch the world’s largest rodents roam, snack and swim in a specially designed habitat that highlights their social and aquatic nature.
For those seeking a more hands-on experience, Capybara Encounters will be offered four times daily at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. The small-group sessions provide up-close interactions under the guidance of the aquarium’s animal care staff. The encounters cost $59.95 per person and require a separate reservation.
Native to Central and South America, capybaras are known for their gentle temperament, social bonds and love of water.
PSA: Capybaras are captivating in a controlled setting but, officials caution, they are not suitable as pets in many U.S. states due to legal restrictions and their complex care needs.
