Japan Zoo Uses Stuffed Capybaras & Red Pandas To Enforce Social Distancing

As visitors slowly begin to stream into grounds of Izu Shaboten Zoo in Shizuoka, Japan again, social distancing measures still have to be adhered to. The zoo has responded to this in the most adorable way I can think of—social distancing capybaras and red pandas at all tables! Trust the Japanese to always take the kawaii route.

The use of stuffed capybaras is not just a cute coincidence however, as Twitter user @Johnny_suputama has let us in on the true significance of these cuddly creatures.

The cafe at Izu Shaboten Zoo in Shizuoka, Japan uses stuffed Capybaras to enforce social distancing

(Photos by @chacha0rca) pic.twitter.com/g15HTL2IG0

— Spoon & Tamago (@Johnny_suputama) May 21, 2020

The history of the relationship between capybaras and Izu Shaboten Zoo dates back to one winter day in 1982, when a zookeeper first found capybaras seeking warmth in their cosy hot springs.

Since then, it’s capybaras have been lovingly tied to Izu Shaboten Zoo. And they say that Romeo and Juliet is the greatest love story of all time. To read the heartwarming back story in greater detail, you may visit the Izu Shaboten Zo’s page here.

Often known as chill animals, capybaras make a great companion for anyone looking to bask in the company of endearment. To interact with real life capybaras, that option presents itself in a capybara cafe—the Capy Neko Cafe, Tokyo.

I don’t know about you, but I’d take sitting next to stuffed capybaras over crossed out seats any day.

Izu Shaboten Zoo | Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube