New Male Agouti Joins UK Zoo’s Largest Group As Park Plans Capybara Habitat

Knockhatch Adventure Park in East Sussex has welcomed a new male Azara’s agouti as it expands what it says is the largest group of the species held in any UK zoo.

The male arrived from Bede’s School in Hailsham as Knockhatch prepares to introduce the agoutis into a shared habitat with its capybaras for the first time.

The park said a recent baby boom has already created a waiting list of zoos and wildlife parks interested in receiving future offspring. The move is part of efforts to build a sustainable captive population of the lesser-known South American species.

Azara’s agoutis are sometimes known as “jungle gardeners” because they bury and redistribute large seeds, including Brazil nuts. This helps regenerate forests, support tree growth and maintain biodiversity.

The species is currently classified as “data deficient,” meaning scientists do not know how many remain in the wild. Their secretive nature makes wild populations difficult to monitor, increasing the importance of managed populations in zoos.

Knockhatch zookeeper Tom Donovan said the park is building a genetic backup in UK zoos “like a modern-day Noah’s Ark” to help safeguard the species.

The agoutis are also trained to voluntarily enter crates, approach keepers and receive medication, helping make future transfers and veterinary treatment safer and less stressful.

The new mixed habitat is intended to let visitors observe both species while encouraging interest in the lesser-known agouti. Visitors can currently learn about the animals in the parrot aviary and during Jungle Kingdom talks.