Cape May Zoo's Viral Capybara Pups Get Cheesy Names

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The Cape May County Zoo has announced the names of its viral capybara pups - Brie, Gouda, Havarti, Mozzarella, and Ricotta for Marigold's litter, and Tulip and Sprout for Buttercup's two. The zoo keepers have provided details on how to tell the pups apart based on their unique physical characteristics.

Why it matters

The Cape May Zoo's capybara pups have become an internet sensation, with people eagerly following the zoo's social media for updates on the adorable babies. Giving the pups creative, thematic names helps cement their viral fame and appeal to the public.

The details

Marigold's five capybara pups have been named after different types of cheese - Brie, Gouda, Havarti, Mozzarella, and Ricotta. Brie is the smallest and only female, Ricotta was born with a missing rear toe like his mother, Gouda has distinctive pink ears and a dark nose, Mozzarella is the shyest, and Havarti is the most rambunctious. Buttercup's two pups are named Tulip and Sprout, honoring their floral-themed family. The pups have been staying inside their barn due to the cold South Jersey weather, but the zoo says they'll likely be outside when temperatures reach at least 45 degrees.

• The capybara pups were born in late 2025.

What’s next

The zoo says the capybara pups will likely be visible to visitors when temperatures reach at least 45 degrees Fahrenheit and it's sunny.