How Capybaras Are Trained: Meet Active Spark, Calm Caramel, and Phlegmatic Peach
In the spacious enclosure of the Moscow Aquarium live three capybaras: dignified Peach, calm Caramel, and energetic Spark. Capybara trainer Alisa told MSK1.RU why they train them, whether they have high intelligence, and how they actually eat.
A capybara trainer demonstrates the training process and care routines for the animals.
It turns out that the popular internet myth about capybaras loving oranges is a dangerous misconception.
«They absolutely should not have a lot of sweet things,» explains trainer Alisa. The basis of their diet is hay, branches, grass pellets, and unsweetened vegetables, while carrot or zucchini slices are used as rewards during training.
Despite their image as phlegmatic creatures, these animals have complex behavior. They adore tactile contact. Special «petting sessions» last for an hour or even longer. But their famous fur is not soft to the touch at all — it«s stiff, like a brush.
Keeping such an exotic rodent at home is impossible and illegal. They require a special microclimate with warm water and high humidity, which only professionals can recreate.
The elements that the capybaras perform, we filmed on video — watch it above.
