The wait is over for visitors and supporters of the Welsh Mountain Zoo, as the zoo’s newest capybara resident has officially been given a name.

After receiving more than 400 suggestions as part of a fundraising campaign, the animal care team at the Colwyn Bay zoo have chosen “Mango” as the winning name for the popular newcomer.

The naming fundraiser captured the imagination of animal lovers across North Wales and beyond, raising an impressive £1,852.63 to support the zoo’s ongoing work.

The zoo said Mango was chosen not only because the young capybara is “round and sweet”, but also because mangoes are a natural food source for capybaras in the rainforests of South America, creating a meaningful link to the species’ native habitat.

The winning supporter has now been contacted and zoo staff say Mango is settling in well and proving a hit with visitors.

As a conservation charity, the Welsh Mountain Zoo relies on the support of visitors, donors and fundraising initiatives to help care for animals and develop habitats across the site. Funds raised through the campaign will contribute towards ongoing habitat improvements, helping ensure the highest standards of animal welfare while creating engaging experiences for visitors.

Known as the National Zoo of Wales, the Welsh Mountain Zoo welcomes thousands of visitors each year and plays an important role in global conservation efforts. The zoo participates in a number of international breeding and conservation programmes, helping protect threatened species while educating future generations about the importance of wildlife conservation.

Located high above Colwyn Bay, the zoo remains one of North Wales’ most popular visitor attractions, offering families the opportunity to connect with animals from around the world while supporting conservation work both locally and internationally.

Thanking everyone who took part, zoo officials said the response to the fundraiser had been overwhelming and highlighted the strong connection between the zoo and its supporters.

With his new name now officially revealed, visitors can look forward to meeting Mango during their next trip to the Welsh Mountain Zoo.