Drusillas hopes for another sucessful match in breeding programme
A hot new Capybara has entered Drusillas - and he's getting to know two sisters!
A cheeky Capybara's been caught smooching two sisters at Drusilla's Park - but keepers say its a good thing.
One-year-old Rupert's been brought into the East Sussex zoo as part of efforts to continue breeding the species, helping stop its population declining in the future.
The arrival from Belgium is part of a successful programme which has already welcomed six babies over recent years.
Rupert has so far been getting to know sisters Squash and Pumpkin, giving them both kisses in their pool.
Keepers reveal that this is "no small feat", as females can be "quite discerning" over who they pick as their partner.
Zoo Manager at Drusillas Park, Mark Kenward, said: “Rupert is a self-assured young capybara who is already showing plenty of character, and keepers believe he has what it takes to lead a small group.
He’s very sure of himself and seems to know exactly what he wants.”
He continued; “Despite all the memes about capybaras being the most laid-back animals around, introducing them can actually be quite dramatic.
"The females can be very clear about whether they approve of a new male, so we took things slowly and carefully to give everyone the best possible chance of getting along.
“Thankfully, Squash and Pumpkin seem to have decided Rupert is a keeper. He’s hit it off with both of them, and we’re delighted to see the three of them settling in so well together.”