Capybaras, the world’s largest rodents, are semi-aquatic mammals known for their docile temperament. They are native to South America, thriving in water-rich environments. Their unique appearance and calm demeanor have led to interest in their presence outside their native South America.
The Presence of Capybaras in Florida
Capybaras are found in Florida, though they are not native. Established populations exist, concentrated in north-central Florida. Sightings are frequent around the Santa Fe River, primarily in Alachua County. While primarily in this region, observations extend south to Cape Coral in Collier County, and include Hillsborough and Sarasota counties. The current non-captive population in Florida is estimated to be small, with around 50 individuals in the northern part of the state.
How Capybaras Arrived and Spread
Capybaras were introduced to Florida’s wild primarily through escapes from exotic pet ownership and private animal collections. A notable event occurred in 1994, when five capybaras escaped from the Lubee Foundation (now Lubee Bat Conservancy) in north-central Florida. A hurricane damaged their enclosure, allowing them to enter the environment.
Florida’s warm climate and abundant wetlands, rivers, and marshes provide suitable habitat, resembling their native South American environments. Their semi-aquatic nature allows them to adapt well, aiding survival and establishment. Once established, their reproductive capabilities contribute to localized spread. Females can produce one litter of about four offspring annually, with some reports indicating up to eight pups twice a year.
Ecological Concerns and Impact
Non-native capybaras in Florida raise ecological concerns due to their potential to disrupt local ecosystems. They can compete with native wildlife for food and habitat. Their grazing could reduce vegetation for native herbivores, affecting their populations.
They also pose a risk to agriculture, potentially damaging crops like corn, sugarcane, and strawberries. They can carry and transmit diseases, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever via ticks, which could affect native species, livestock, and humans. While significant negative environmental or human impacts are not widely documented at current population levels, their non-native status means they have inherent potential for ecological disruption.
Management and Regulation Efforts
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) monitors capybara populations. The FWC classifies capybaras as an “observed” or “established exotic species” in Florida, reflecting their presence and breeding. A Class III wildlife permit is required by the FWC to keep capybaras in captivity.
This permit mandates specific housing conditions: minimum cage dimensions of 10x10x6 feet for one or two animals, and a pool at least 6x8x3 feet deep. The FWC encourages reporting sightings through their “IveGot1” website or hotline. While monitoring is in place, active pest control programs specifically targeting capybaras are not a primary focus. State resources are often directed towards other established, destructive invasive species.