Capybaras Enjoying Oranges in Japan

Capybaras, the world's largest rodents, have a unique affinity for water as well as a rather unique treat. One Japanese zoo offers them a treat unlike others: relaxing in a pool of water with floating oranges. This practice peaks from mid-November through early April, when the capybaras can be found swimming with fruit around them.

The Orange-Scented Oasis

Izu Shaboten Zoo, located in Shizuoka, Japan, is much more than just a gathering place for cacti and capybaras. It transforms into an orange-scented oasis for capybaras, where fruits such as oranges are added to their pool to create an enchanting image. The water-fortified fruit float around the rodents, who appear to enjoy both the fruit and the water. The capybaras are natives to Central and South America but are also popular in zoos around the world.

Water-Side Celebrity Status

Capybaras are a social media favorite for a reason. They love water, and watchers do too. But the capybaras have another fan base, with a unique relationship to citrus fruit.

Romance in the Pool

Capybaras' affinity for water is no secret; they love to soak, take baths, and even swim. The juice fills the air as the capybaras enjoy the citrusy mixture. The oranges are not just for show, however: they are actually a food source. The specific which fruit turn up in the pool varies by season, but according to the zoo's schedule, the focus sheds a light on their seasonality and “super-relationships” — many who have been lucky enough to visit say they cannot separate the fruit from the mood. The fruit are an integral part of the refreshment session.

Zoo Treat

In the wild, capybaras are known to eat grasses, aquatic plants, fruits, and tree bark. Their diet —especially fruits— make them appear far more in line with what are considered herbivores. The orange slices are a special treat for these unusual visitors of the zoo. The capybara's relationship with the fruit is not simply a sensory experience. Once the capybaras have their fill, the ocean of citrus is replaced by another seasonal fruit. Even when the citrus is gone, the pool is still full of food for the rodents, who may feast on the roses, cherries, and other seasonal offerings.

The Shape of Relaxation

The capybaras are known for being low-energy and low-stress. The pool of water with oranges and other fruits floats around the rodents, fitting to their gentle natures and the relaxing atmosphere has made them a symbol of calm and contentment. It’s a delight that they share with the pool user visitors, who are able to see the rodents up close in the warm waters. The scene is visually appealing and somewhat unique. There is nothing else like it.

Building the Mood

There are many special experiences involving animals, but this pool offers an especially unusual one. The scene is visually appealing. The visual contrast between the capybaras and oranges is especially striking. The animals are known for being extremely friendly with each other, and the pool provides them with a unique way to spend time together in a relaxing environment. Changing fruits helps ensure that visitors have a new experience each time The animals in this environment are less aware of humans and more focused on each other: the pool is a rich social scene, different from other zoos that may create the illusion of a single sociality of animals when visitors are in the zoo. It’s a unique experience.

Join the Adventure

Capybaras and their food are a treat to visit. You don't have to worry about your visit being particularly relevant to their food; their pool of fruit has drawn many visitors who have appreciated the chance to see and enjoy the animals in their calmest and most natural state. Animal lovers and ornithologists appreciate the unique opportunity to see these animals up close.

• Visit: The treat is available from mid-November through early April. The Juices are different depending on the time of year. Taken to Shizuoka, Japan
• Bring: Make sure you take a camera.
• Watch: They also offer food and watch. Each capybara pool is seasonal. Check the season elements*

Chilled Out

The orange-scented oasis is only one of many options for visitors to the Zoo. The experience is unique and has been drawing in animal lovers from all over the world. If you ever find yourself near Shizuoka, Japan, it is worth the trip to see these animals up close: they are known for being well-adjusted and well-rested.