Antonio, the last capybara remaining at the Santa Barbara Zoo, died on Friday from a rare form of blood cancer after months of intensive care by staff and veterinarians.
The 4-year-old capybara was diagnosed with advanced multiple myeloma in early August, according to an Instagram post from the Santa Barbara Zoo.
“While Antonio showed some positive signs toward an improvement in his condition over the past couple of months, he experienced a significant decline in the last few days,” the Instagram post read.
Antonio arrived at the Santa Barbara Zoo in February 2023. He was born and raised at the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildfire Learning Museum in Alabama in 2022.
In August, an 8-year-old capybara named Poppy was euthanized after doctors found an “inoperable mass” in her throat. Two panda cubs and their mother also died at the zoo over the summer.
The Santa Barbara Zoo’s veterinary team alongside a local veterinary oncologist developed a chemotherapeutic treatment regimen for Antonio.
But the medication was not enough.
“With progressive limb weakness severely affecting his quality of life, it was decided that humane euthanasia was the best option for the ailing capybara,” the post read.
Antonio was remembered for being “gentle” and “curious” during his time at the zoo, stealing the hearts of staff and community members.
“We are hopeful that the information gathered through his diagnosis and treatment may be shared to help other capybaras in the future,” according to the post. “The Zoo thanks you for your compassion and support as we grieve this difficult loss.”
