Capybaras are captivating audiences all over the country. The semiaquatic relatives of the guinea pig are quite a bit bigger than their cousins, and just as cute. While it’s hard to resist the adults, their pups are even more irresistible, leaving audiences with an undeniable urge to see them.

One zoo recently had a litter of five capybara pups that has led to quite a bit of attention online and, I’m sure, in person. The five pups are pros at showing their good sides on camera, but in one recent clip, dad wants to make sure they know how to navigate the spotlight and takes over the shot.

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Capybara Papa Shows Babies How to Use Social Media

At the end of October, the Sacramento Zoo welcomed a tiny brood of five capybara pups who have been the apple of the public’s eye ever since. Their mom, Peppermint Patty, has been taking motherhood in stride, but while Dad seems happy with his little family, he does seem to be missing a bit of the spotlight.

Ever since the announcement, these adorable little babes have been front and center in quite a few of the organization’s social media posts, and in a recent post, Dad seems to have had enough.

The clip begins focused on the squad eating grass, snuggling, and playing in their water trough. While they aren’t doing a whole lot, I can guarantee people could sit and watch the little capy tribe all day long.

Related: Baby Capybara’s Nap Interrupted by ‘Rude Awakening’ From Crow & His Face Says It All

But, we don’t get to see them for too long because pops nudges in, placing his face completely in front of the camera, blocking the view of his precious family. The zoo jokes in the caption that he truly isn’t “stealing the spotlight.” Instead, he is just “teaching the pups the importance of sharing it.” Really, he does have a point. There are five of them, and at some point, they will have to learn to share the world’s affection.

Dad stands so close to the camera that they have to zoom out to get him in frame, and he stays there for the duration of the video. Clearly, he is telling us he is ready for his close-up, whether we are or not.

Fans don’t mind the interruption, saying in the comments, “Anna-Leroy should’ve been a pop star!” He loves the attention enough; he may have been quite popular. In contrast, another fan has a much more practical explanation for his interruption.

“I bet he’s just protecting his pups from too much social media early on! Good job, Dad!” The fan compliments. I, for one, love this thought process. I am sure he’s just making sure they get to have private moments and grow up like normal capybaras. Whichever it is, his impromptu camera moment is just too adorable for words. We can’t wait to see more of him and his pups!

Related: Silly Capybara at San Diego Zoo Shows off His Hilarious ‘T-Rex’ Underwater Walk

This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Nov 22, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.