Published on: 2026-08-23
Source: Moscow Government – Правительства Москвы –
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In August, the nutria family at the “City Farm” at VDNH welcomed new additions. Businka and Semyon had six healthy offspring. Four of them inherited their father’s snow-white coloration, while two have the gray color of their mother.
Businka and the puppies are feeling well. In their first days of life, the puppies spend time in a cozy enclosure, gaining strength and getting used to the surrounding world. The family is under the supervision of zoologists who take care of their comfort and calm. The gender of the offspring is not yet determined to avoid disturbing the newborns, who are currently very vulnerable.
“Nutrias are caring mothers, and Businka is no exception. She is always close to the babies, keeping them warm and feeding them. We try to intervene minimally, only observing to ensure everything goes smoothly,” the zoologists of the “City Farm” said.
Externally, baby nutrias simultaneously resemble young rats and beavers. They are born with their eyes open, with dense, shiny fur and strong incisors. Nutria pups are immediately able to swim and run actively. A semi-aquatic lifestyle is aided by special muscles in their nostrils that prevent water from entering the nose, as well as waterproof fur and special webbing on the toes of their hind legs. For the first period, their diet consists mainly of fatty mother’s milk.
Farm staff ask visitors to observe the family from a distance. In the coming weeks, it is important not to disturb the mother and her young so they can adapt.
Together with them, about 90 animals live at the “City Farm” — from chickens and rabbits to deer and cattle. Individual walks with the pets and a cozy café are available for visitors. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or on the website.
Holding events for the whole family at VDNH aligns with the goals of the national project “Family”. More details about Russia’s national projects and the capital’s contribution can be found at special page.
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