LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (April 27, 2026) – The friendly, energy-filled, but easy-going Capybaras are coming back to the Little Rock Zoo! They will make their return- after a 6- year absence- with the Zoo’s renovation, Project Zoo: Wildly Reimagined.
The largest rodent in the world, the capybara, is twice the size of a beaver and can weigh up to 150 lbs. Capybaras are native to South America, with the largest population in Brazil. Unfortunately, they are threatened by humans who hunt them for their fur. Capybaras are strictly vegetarian, eating aquatic plants, grass and other vegetation.
To celebrate their return, the Zoo is partnering with the internationally acclaimed Cracking Art Collective to debut two dozen custom capybara sculptures across Zoo grounds. Made from regenerated plastic, the vibrant sculptures, featured in neon pink and neon orange, invite guests to explore, take photos and engage with sustainability in a fun, interactive way.
“This new exhibit will bring together two things our guests love, animals and experiences,” said Zoo Director Susan Altrui. “Capybaras are incredibly social and engaging, and pairing their return with this bold, sustainable art installation gives us a new way to connect visitors to conservation in a fun and meaningful way.”
The capybara sculptures are available for sponsorship, with benefits including invitations to the Project Zoo: Wildly Reimagined grand opening, exclusive exhibit previews, special donor recognition, a framed certificate, and a professional photo.
For more information about the exhibit or to sponsor a sculpture, visit littlerockzoo.com/capys.
About the Zoo
The Little Rock Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, visit aza.org.
For more information on Little Rock Zoo, visit littlerockzoo.com or call 501-661-7200.
