The Capybara is an intriguing creature that calls South America it’s home. Travellers who have ventured to Brazil may have stumbled upon this charming mammal and wondered if they could keep one as a pet. However, it is important to note that the Capybara is a wild animal and not suitable for domestication, but would it be legal to do it anyway?

First of all, let’s explain what a Capybara is.

Belonging to the Caviidae family, which includes guinea pigs and rock cavies, the Capybara is the largest rodent in the world. It can grow up to four feet long and weigh as much as 140 pounds. This semi-aquatic animal is covered in short, dark brown fur and has webbed feet, allowing it to move with ease both on land and in water. Its eyes and nostrils are located high on its head, enabling it to remain submerged in water while still being able to see and breathe.

Capybaras prefer to dwell in and around bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and swamps. These adept swimmers can remain underwater for up to five minutes at a time and have partially webbed feet that enable them to move effortlessly through the water and escape predators.

Capybaras are gregarious animals and typically live in groups of up to 20 individuals. A dominant male leads these groups, protecting and defending them from potential threats. 

Photo: Capybara in Brazil

The legality of owning a Capybara as a pet

Capybara ownership regulations vary by state in the United States. In some states, such as Texas and Pennsylvania, it is possible to own a Capybara as a pet with the appropriate permits and documentation. For example, in Texas, individuals must acquire a permit from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to own a Capybara, and the animal must come from a legal source. Similarly, in Pennsylvania, individuals must acquire a permit from the state’s Department of Agriculture to own a Capybara.

However, other states such as California and New York prohibit Capybaras as pets entirely. In California, Capybaras are a restricted species and can only be kept by authorized individuals, such as those with permits for scientific or educational purposes. 

Capybaras are considered wild animals in New York State and require a special license from the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation to be kept as pets.

It is important to note that even in states where Capybara ownership is legal, owning one as a pet is not recommended for the majority of people. Capybaras require a considerable amount of space, access to water, and specialized care that can be challenging to provide in a domestic setting. Capybaras are social animals that require the company of other Capybaras to maintain good mental and physical health. 

Therefore, it is best to consider a Capybara as a pet only if you have the appropriate knowledge, resources, and permits, or to see them in a zoo or wildlife sanctuary instead.

Can you legally own a Capybara in Canada?

Capybaras are classified as exotic animals in Canada and are not considered domesticated pets. This means that most provinces and territories require a person to obtain a special permit or license to own a Capybara.

The regulations for Capybara ownership in Canada vary depending on the province or territory. Some regions prohibit Capybaras as pets, while others permit them with the proper permits and documentation.

Individuals in Ontario must acquire a permit from the province’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry to own a Capybara. The animal must be obtained legally and cannot be imported into the province. In Quebec, individuals must acquire a permit from the province’s Ministry of Forests, Wildlife and Parks to own a Capybara. The animal must be microchipped, registered, and the owner must have a contingency plan in case of escape.

In BC Capybaras are prohibited as pets under the Controlled Alien Species Regulation. The regulation also forbids the breeding, release, and transport of Capybaras within the province.

Can you legally own a Capybara in Brazil?

In Brazil, Capybaras are indigenous animals and are protected by law. The Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources classifies Capybaras as wild animals, and it is illegal to keep them as pets without special authorization.

To obtain authorization to keep a Capybara in Brazil, a person must apply for a special permit from IBAMA. The permit application requires a detailed explanation of why the animal is being kept, the type and size of the enclosure, and proof of legal acquisition of the animal. Furthermore, the permit mandates the owner to adhere to certain standards and guidelines to ensure the animal’s welfare and well-being.

Legal Requirements for Capybara Ownership

Apart from the legal requirements, it is vital to consider the unique needs and demands of Capybaras before considering them as pets. Capybaras need ample space and water to thrive, and their diet is highly specialized and challenging to provide in a domestic environment. Furthermore, Capybaras are social animals that need the company of other Capybaras to maintain good mental and physical health.

While it is possible to obtain authorization to keep a Capybara as a pet in Brazil with a special permit from IBAMA, it’s essential to consider the animal’s specialized needs and requirements before bringing it into a domestic setting. It is also crucial to adhere to laws and regulations governing animal ownership and support initiatives that protect and conserve wildlife.

Alistair Vigier serves as the CEO of ClearwayLaw, a website that aims to promote legal education to the public. The platform provides a channel for the public to inquire about legal issues.