PORT CLINTON, Ohio, May 17, 2024 — African Safari Wildlife Park has announced the addition of Capybaras to the Park’s Walk-Thru Safari this summer as well as an opportunity for guests to “meet” these unique animals.

Capybaras, which are the world’s largest rodents, are found in wetlands throughout much of South America. They are closely related to Guinea Pigs, and many individual Capybaras are remarked on for their “chill” personalities. While Capybaras are not threatened with extinction, they serve as ambassadors for vulnerable freshwater ecosystems around the world.

“Capybaras have become very popular over the past few years, and our guests have told us over and over that they want to see Capybaras at the Park,” said Park director Kelsey Keller. “It wasn’t something we wanted to rush into. We put a lot of time, energy and research into designing and building the perfect home for these animals and making sure this habitat functions as a learning opportunity for our guests.”

The Capybaras’ habitat is approximately 1,500 square feet in size and is outfitted with naturalistic features such as a large pool, a waterfall and ample shade. The Park’s construction team is putting the finishing touches on this space ahead of the animals’ arrival in late May.

The Park will also introduce a Capybara encounter in mid-June. Guests participating in this interactive experience will have the opportunity to feed, touch and learn about the Capybaras. As with all of the Park’s animal experiences, this encounter is contingent upon weather and the animals’ voluntary participation. Advanced bookings can be made at www.africansafariwildlifepark.com/safari/animal-encounters.

“There’s definitely a ‘cool factor’ to getting up close and personal with a Capybara, but this is first and foremost an educational opportunity for our guests,” said Keller. “We want to make sure they walk away with an appreciation for Capybaras and other animals that depend on lakes and rivers to survive.”