Environmental enrichment techniques applied to capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris Linnaeus, 1758) under human care – case report

Main Article Content

Victoria Vieira Baggi
Maria Izabel B. Medeiros do Prado

Abstract

Capybaras, Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris Linnaeus, 1758, are the largest rodents in the world and are distributed across Central and South American regions. With uncontrolled urban growth and the reduction of their natural habitat, these animals have become a well known figure in cities (Augusto, 2023). All animals should be granted the five fundamental freedoms, regardless of the context in which they find themselves; however, many species under human care are unable to fully enjoy these freedoms (Bloomsmith; Brent; Schapiro, 1991). The purpose of this study was to implement enhanced environmental enrichment practices, such as feeding, cognitive, structural, sensory, and social enrichment, in a Wildlife Animal Rescue Center (Cetas). Over the 4 months of the study, the final average of p = 0.00015 was obtained. From this final average, we can attribute the following results: Environmental > Social > Sensory > Cognitive > Feeding. This demonstrates that the study produced positive results. This analysis showed that the five fundamental freedoms were met, and the biological integrity of the capybara was respected, even within the restricted and confined environment.

Article Details

Section

PREVENTIVE VETERINARY MEDICINE

Author Biographies

Victoria Vieira Baggi, Sao Judas University

Undergraduate Student, Sao Judas University (USJT), School of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Medicine Program, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.

Maria Izabel B. Medeiros do Prado, São Paulo State University “Júlio de Mesquita Filho”

Biologist, São Paulo State University “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” (Unesp), Assis, SP, Brazil.

How to Cite

Environmental enrichment techniques applied to capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris Linnaeus, 1758) under human care – case report. Revista de Educação Continuada em Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, [S. l.], v. 23, 2025. DOI: 10.36440/recmvz.v23.38707. Disponível em: https://www.revistamvez-crmvsp.com.br/index.php/recmvz/article/view/38707. Acesso em: 17 jun. 2026.