NANNING, Feb. 5 (Xinhua) -- The atmosphere at Nanning Garden Expo Park in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region has been energized by the presence of capybaras, particularly during the recent holiday season.

On a sunny afternoon, visitors gathered around a semiaquatic enclosure, where these creatures have captured the hearts of many.

Onlookers expressed excitement at the opportunity to see capybaras in person, with one 10-year-old visitor stating, "I finally got to see a capybara in person." The capybaras were notably adorned in festive attire, including red bow ties, a feature that many visitors found appealing.

Originating from South America, capybaras are large rodents known for their distinctive appearance, featuring brownish-yellow fur and small, triangular ears.

Their tranquil demeanor is often highlighted by their relaxed posture, which resonates with audiences as a symbol of calmness.

"The red bow tie is such a fun touch for Capy," commented Wang Zhirong, a visitor keen on capturing memorable photographs of the animals.

The allure of capybaras extends to their name, which is considered charming and widely enjoyed across various demographics.

Li Xin, an English teacher, pointed out that the popularity of capybaras has significant cultural impact, stating, "The cuteness of the name gives capybara a universal appeal that transcends language barriers."

The phenomenon of capybaras has gained momentum in China, particularly on social media.

Data indicates that over 1.19 million posts regarding capybaras have been made on a popular lifestyle app, while videos featuring the animals have garnered a staggering 8.12 billion views on Douyin, a widely-used short-video platform.

This internet sensation has led to a surge in themed merchandise, including plush toys and mobile games, reflecting the commercial potential surrounding capybaras.

Nanning Garden Expo Park introduced six capybaras last October, adapting their environment to closely mirror their natural habitat, which includes verdant areas and pools essential for their well-being.

According to Liang Qiuyi, an animal breeder at the park, capybaras require a semiaquatic environment for their comfort and health.

Communication among capybaras involves various vocalizations, which serve as indicators of their emotional state.

Caretakers have learned to interpret these sounds, enhancing their understanding of the animals' needs.

Visitors can only interact with the capybaras in designated areas, as emphasized by Liang, who noted that the main objective is to promote wildlife appreciation among younger generations rather than solely increasing park attendance.

In line with this mission, the park has implemented educational outreach programs focused on wildlife science, fostering a connection between the public and conservation efforts.

This initiative emphasizes the importance of wildlife protection while indulging the growing interest in capybaras among the community.