SALISBURY, MD — The Salisbury Zoo is mourning the loss of Faith, a 10-year-old capybara who had been a cherished part of the zoo family for nearly a decade.
Faith was humanely euthanized after veterinarians at the Ron Benton Animal Health Clinic discovered she had extensive internal tumors and a hemoabdomen, the zoo announced Monday. Staff had recently noticed a rapid decline in her health and, after testing, made the difficult decision to prevent further suffering.
Faith arrived at Salisbury Zoo as a six-month-old from Brevard Zoo in Florida. While she preferred her space from other capybaras, she bonded closely with her habitat mates—Charlie and Tracy, two Greater Rheas. Zookeepers say she had a fondness for pumpkin, corn, and peanuts, and was known for her signature squeaks around mealtime that delighted guests.
This is the second tragic loss at the Salisbury Zoo recently. In November, Dweasal the monkey died after a fight with his brother.
Capybaras are the world’s largest rodents, native to South America’s forests and wetlands. Their webbed feet and swimming ability make them well-adapted for semi-aquatic life. In human care, they typically live 10 to 12 years.
The Salisbury Zoo has cared for capybaras since 1971 and welcomed its first capybara birth in 1974. Faith continued that legacy with her calm presence and unique charm, which made her a favorite among visitors and staff alike.
Faith’s life and memory will be honored as the zoo continues its mission of wildlife education and conservation.
