A long trip from Taiwan and the first meeting with large “guinea pigs”
It took us a long time to travel to the meeting place. In turn, the location of the “capybarium” itself was unmarked and difficult to find. We spent a lot of time looking for the “hidden” entrance to this magical animal kingdom.
Capybarium. What exactly to expect?
It was created as a completely different space than a traditional zoo or breeding farm – it is an oasis where capybaras live close to natural conditions, and visitors can establish safe and respectful contact with them. It is not a crowded place or a small animal exhibition, but a unique combination of caring for these extraordinary creatures with educational activities and promoting environmental protection.
. They are surrounded by picturesque, green scenery that promotes relaxation, and visitors have the opportunity not only to observe capybaras, but also to better learn about their habits and needs.
Capybaras. What kind of animals are these exactly?
Capybaras are the largest rodents in the world. They impress with both their size and character. Adults reach a length of 100 to 130 cm and a weight of up to 65 kg. They are excellent swimmers and can spend up to an hour in the water, which reflects their semi-aquatic lifestyle. They are sociable animals that behave like household pets – they cuddle with people and show affection similar to dogs. Research confirms that contact with them helps reduce the level of cortisol, the stress hormone, and increases oxytocin, associated with feelings of peace and social bonds. Nowadays, this is an extremely valuable experience.
Meeting with capybaras and more. The extraordinary impact of animals on human well-being
Meeting capybaras is an experience primarily because of their extraordinary gentleness and calm (actually lazy) pace of life. . When they wanted to beg food from us, they behaved exactly the same as towards each other.
During meals, they can chew food together while standing on their hind legs, which requires excellent balance and stability. We called them “Bambi” due to their delicacy, and energetic goats.
Splashing together in the pool with capybaras
The key “point of the program” was swimming with capybaras. First, you should put on a special swimsuit provided by the organizers. You can also bring your own.
They are extremely cute when they place their paws on your lap or nuzzle them as an expression of affection. Swimming is calm and natural. The animals themselves decide the degree of closeness, which makes the whole experience very relaxed. Both for these giant pets and for people.
Contact with these rodents has real benefits for your mental health. Spending time in their company reduces stress, improves mood and may support the treatment of depression or anxiety. Meeting capybaras is a natural way to clear your mind, reset your emotions and find inner peace.
Was it worth it? Definitely yes! Anyone who has the opportunity to go to a Taiwanese or any other capybarium will definitely not regret it. Swimming and contact with these creatures is a unique form of relaxation and therapy for the body and spirit. It’s an experience that stays in your memory for a long time.
Additionally, you can take great souvenir photos. Well, let’s be honest, who wouldn’t feel better after looking at a selfie with a capybara on a rainy Monday morning?
