WEST PALM BEACH — Capybaras have taken over the internet — boldly, visibly and everywhere. The world’s largest rodent has become a social-media phenomenon, starring in viral videos, memes, plush toys and pop-culture moments that celebrate their calm demeanor and seemingly universal friendships with other animals. But while capybaras dominate online feeds, behind the scenes at accredited zoos they are also part of carefully managed conservation and veterinary programs.
One of those capybaras is Iyari, a roughly 2-year-old female at Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society, who recently participated in her third ultrasound training session. The session was part of an ongoing preventive-care effort designed to familiarize her with medical equipment and allow veterinarians to monitor her health through voluntary participation.
The ultrasound took place in the Zoo’s Tropics of the Americas section, where Iyari is visible to guests. The session offered a real-time look at how modern zoo medicine emphasizes patience, training and trust, allowing animals to actively participate in their own care rather than being restrained or sedated…