Keepers at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) zoo are keeping a close eye on the cabybara as they are still vulnerable at this point in their development.
Jonny Appleyard, animal keeper, said: “We are so proud of Luna and Rodney, they’re already doing an incredible job of looking after their new baby.
“They are such a beautiful species and the babies are especially adorable.
“The baby is slowly starting to get braver and explore so you may well catch a glimpse of them, closely followed by mum.
“Capybara pups grow up quickly so we recommend visiting the zoo soon if you want to see the new arrival at their cutest stage.”
Edinburgh Zoo has welcomed the birth of a capybara, the first to be born in Scotland in 18 years (Image: Edinburgh zoo)
Capybara babies, known as pups, weigh around 1.5 to 2.5kg when born, similar to the weight of a six-pack of Irn-Bru.
In the coming weeks the pup will become more independent and spend time grazing.
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They will learn social behaviours from the herd, including communication sounds such as barks and chirps, and group hierarchy.
The pup pictured in the zoo (Image: Edinburgh Zoo)
The pup will have their first health check in the coming weeks at which point keepers will find out the gender and choose their name.
Visitors can book zoo tickets online in advance and save at edinburghzoo.org.uk/tickets.
Edinburgh Zoo currently cares for four capybaras Luna, Rodney, Cali and the new pup.
The capybara pictured in Edinburgh Zoo (Image: Edinburgh Zoo)
Capybaras live across much of South America, preferring dense forests, savannas and wetland. They are great swimmers, often staying close to water to escape predators and keep cool.
They can stay underwater for several minutes with just their nostrils above the surface.
The RZSS is a wildlife conservation charity that aims for a world which protects and loves nature .