Capy ever after? New capybara named Rupert arrives at UK zoo... in search of love

Published: 01:35 BST, 2 October 2026 | Updated: 01:37 BST, 2 October 2026

A young capybara who 'knows exactly what he wants' has arrived at a UK zoo – where he has been spotted getting cosy with two potential matches.

Rupert was whisked to the zoo in Sussex from Mon Sauvage Wildlife Park and Safari in Belgium so he could join two sisters – Squash and Pumpkin.

Keepers reportedly carried out gradual introductions when the one–year–old arrived, with things moving quickly.

Charming photographs now show the animals sharing kisses and huddling together in a pool.

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.

Rupert is pictured at his new home in Sussex with sisters Squash and Pumpkin who are said to have taken well to him

Rupert and Squash 'share a snack and a snuggle'. Keepers reportedly carried out gradual introductions when the one–year–old arrived, with things moving quickly

Rupert and Squash share a kiss in Drusillas capybara pool. His arrival has been branded 'exciting' by staff

'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.'

Rupert's arrival has been branded 'exciting' for Drusillas Zoo Park as it has enjoyed considerable success breeding capybaras in recent years.

The sisters' mother, Clementine, welcomed six babies during her time at Drusillas, including big brother Satsuma and sisters Tango, Marmalade and Swede.

She had previously rejected dozens of potential matches before finally finding her mate, Augustus.  

The pair have since moved on to new zoos, with Augustus continuing his capybara family at Dartmoor Zoo, where he has already welcomed more babies with a new partner.

The two resident female capybaras get to new male Rupert over a 'tasty snack'

Squash and Rupert are seen snuggling up in the pool

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'

Meanwhile, Satsuma, Tango, Marmalade and Swede have all found new homes at zoos across the UK.

Moving capybaras between zoos is an important part of coordinated breeding programmes, Drusillas Zoo Park insists - helping to ensure suitable animals are paired and that the species can continue to 'thrive in zoos across the country'.

Mr Kenward said: 'Clementine, the sisters' mother, certainly kept us on our toes when it came to finding her a partner. She put a string of suitors through their paces before finally settling on Augustus, so we're hoping her daughters might prove a little more welcoming!

'Pumpkin and Squash seem to have skipped all the drama, though, and Rupert appears to have made a very good impression. It's early days, but we're keeping everything crossed that this particular love story has a happy ending.'