World's Largest Rodent Missing from Midlands Zoo
Zoo visitors warned against approaching animal
The world's largest rodent, a capybara named Bubbles, has gone missing from a zoo in the Midlands, prompting an urgent warning from zookeepers to members of the public not to approach the animal if they see it.
Capybaras are native to South America and are the world's largest rodents, weighing up to 70kg (154lb). They have webbed feet and are excellent swimmers and divers.
Bubbles went missing from the Tropical House at Dudley Zoo and Castle on Thursday evening, 12th October 2023.
Zookeepers are searching for Bubbles
Zookeepers are currently searching for Bubbles and have set up a number of traps in the area where he went missing.
They are also asking members of the public to report any sightings of Bubbles to the zoo as soon as possible.
Curator Richard Brown said: "Bubbles is a much-loved member of our zoo family and we are very concerned for his welfare. We are doing everything we can to find him and return him to safety."
Members of the public warned not to approach Bubbles
Zookeepers are warning members of the public not to approach Bubbles if they see him.
Capybaras can be aggressive if they feel threatened, and they have sharp teeth.
Anyone who sees Bubbles is advised to stay away from him and call the zoo immediately.
Urgent appeal for information
The zoo is appealing for information about Bubbles' whereabouts.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact the zoo on 01384 215313.
More information about capybaras
Capybaras are the world's largest rodents.
They are native to South America and are found in and around rivers and lakes.
Capybaras are herbivores and their diet consists mainly of grasses and aquatic plants.
They are social animals and live in groups of up to 30 individuals.
Capybaras are good swimmers and divers and can stay underwater for up to 5 minutes.
They are also very vocal animals and communicate with each other using a variety of grunts, squeals, and whistles.
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