Capybara Escapee: China Zoo Recovers Runaway Rodent
Doubao, teh adventurous capybara who escaped from a Chinese zoo, is finally back in custody after two months of freedom! This runaway rodent, nicknamed “Bean Bun,” outsmarted zoo officials and evaded capture, becoming a local legend. Zoo staff offered a reward, including frozen fried rice and lifetime zoo entry, for his safe return. While his fellow escapees were quickly caught, Doubao enjoyed an extended adventure, apparently thriving on the outside.News Directory 3 has the exclusive on this wild tale of capybara cunning and ultimately, a happy homecoming. Learn more about Doubao’s escapades and discover what’s next for this now-famous capybara.
“Bean Bun” is Back: Runaway Capybara Captured in China Zoo
Updated June 3, 2025
A capybara named Doubao, meaning “Bean Bun” in Chinese, is back in custody after two months on the lam.The semi-aquatic rodent, part of a trio that escaped from the yangzhou Zhuyuwan Scenic Area in early April, was the last of the group to be recaptured, officials said Tuesday.
While his accomplices, Bazong (“Big Shot”) and Duoduo (“Hide hide”), were apprehended earlier, Doubao managed to evade capture for weeks. Bazong was found relaxing in a lake, while duoduo was caught in a rubbish bin after a seven- or eight-person effort.
The zoo even issued a mock wanted poster in May, accusing the capybara of orchestrating a mass jailbreak. They also offered a reward including frozen fried rice, eggs, capybara merchandise, and lifetime zoo entry for information leading to his capture. A zoo representative made repeated pleas on livestreamed videos.
Despite his extended freedom, the zoo reported that Doubao appeared to have thrived. “The runaway child has returned home!” the zoo wrote in a social media post, noting that Doubao had gained weight and his fur remained “smooth and glossy.” “it looks like he was doing well out there!”
The capybara trio initially escaped after Bazong broke through a fence. Capybaras, native to South America, have become increasingly popular zoo attractions and internet sensations worldwide.
What’s next
Zoo officials will monitor Doubao to ensure a smooth transition back into captivity and reintegration with the other capybaras.