Capybaras have become social media sensations, charming people with their calm demeanor. They've become stars of memes, inspiring toys and even songs.
However, behind the fame is an important warning: capybaras are not pets. The Regional Veterinary Medicine Council of Paraíba (CRMV-PB) and the Secretariat of Environment and Sustainability of Paraíba (Semas) launched a campaign about living with these wild animals, increasingly present in urban areas.
"Capybaras are not pets. They need to live in groups, in large, natural environments, with access to water and vegetation. Raising them in homes, besides being illegal, is extremely harmful to the animal's well-being," says veterinarian Lilian Eloy, who works with wild animals.
Furthermore, domestic breeding of capybaras is prohibited. They are classified as wild animals by the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama).
Their appearance in urban areas isn't accidental. Urban expansion and pollution of natural habitats have led these animals to occupy spaces where they still find water and vegetation.
"Urbanization and proximity to rivers and streams mean that these rodents find a new environment to live in parks and urban margins," explains Juan Mendonça, executive manager of Wild Fauna at Semas.
Capybaras play an important role in nature, helping in seed dispersal and maintaining flooded areas. They live in groups, near water, and can live up to 10 years in the wild.
Capybaras are sociable but remain wild animals. Direct contact can be dangerous. It is recommended not to touch, not to try to feed, and to maintain a safe distance.
If the animal is injured, call the Environmental Police Battalion at 190. Juan Mendonça reinforces: "Never try to capture or treat the animal on your own. Exposed injuries, lethargic or isolated behavior may indicate diseases or serious injuries that require professional evaluation."