Capybara Craze Sweeps Social Media as World Embraces ‘Chillest Animal’

The capybara, the world’s largest rodent, is experiencing an unprecedented surge in global popularity. This South American native is now a cultural icon featured on merchandise and in viral online content. The phenomenon is reshaping zoo attendance and consumer trends worldwide.

According to The Economist, the craze began decades ago in Japan. It has since exploded across social media platforms, making the animal an unlikely internet superstar.

From Japanese Onsen to Global Fame

The capybara’s journey to fame started in Japanese zoos. Keepers at Izu Shaboten Park noticed the animals loved warm puddles. They built the capybaras their own onsen, or hot baths.

Visitors adored watching the semi-aquatic creatures relax. This simple observation sparked a national fascination. Another park in Nagasaki became known as the “holy land of capybaras.”

Japanese toymaker Bandai capitalized on the trend. They created Kapibara-san, a character that became a hit anime figure. This merchandise success helped export capybara love internationally.

The Psychology Behind the Popularity

Capybaras have earned the title “the chillest animal on Earth.” They maintain a calm expression during any situation. This perceived zen-like demeanor is key to their appeal.

In an age of widespread anxiety, their unflappable nature is aspirational. They remind stressed humans to “go with the flow.” Their vibe is so distinctive some joke their collective noun should be a “meditation.”

The animal’s unique look adds to its charm. They have large, blunt snouts and bristly fur. Their webbed feet, while ungainly, contribute to their distinctive appearance.

Capybara Cafés and Zoo Pilgrimages

The demand for capybara experiences is now global. Capybara cafés have opened in the United States, Indonesia, and Thailand. One is expected to open in Britain soon.

Hertfordshire Zoo in Britain acquired a breeding pair in 2022. They have seen visitor numbers soar as a result. The zoo’s capybara experience is nearly sold out for the next year.

Fans pay for the chance to scratch the animals and pose for photos. A catchy song repeating “capybara” has over 33 million Spotify streams. On TikTok, the #capybara hashtag has nearly 700,000 posts.

The capybara craze shows no signs of slowing. This unlikely rodent has captured hearts with its serene disposition. The global capybara phenomenon continues to grow, offering a furry, calm antidote to modern stress.

Thought you’d like to know

Why are capybaras so popular online?

Their consistently calm and unbothered demeanor resonates with users. This “chill” vibe provides a humorous and aspirational contrast to daily stressors, making them perfect for memes and viral content.

Where can you see capybaras in person?

Many zoos worldwide now house capybaras due to public demand. Special capybara cafés also exist in countries like the United States, Thailand, and Taiwan, with more planned.

Are capybaras endangered?

No, capybaras are not currently an endangered species. They are native to South America and have a stable population in the wild.

What started the capybara trend?

The trend began in Japan in the 1980s after zoos built them hot baths, or onsens. The sight of the relaxed animals bathing captivated visitors and started a national obsession that later went global.

What does the capybara song say?

The viral “Capybara” song features the word “capybara” repeated over a catchy tune. It has amassed tens of millions of streams on platforms like Spotify, fueling the animal’s internet fame.