Can You Own a Capybara in Pennsylvania in 2024?

Many exotic pets are legal in Pennsylvania but can you own a capybara in Pennsylvania?

Many US states don’t allow citizens to own a capybara as a pet.

In this blog post, I’ll tell you if it is legal to own a capybara in Pennsylvania, and if yes then how can you, is there any permit required to own a capybara in Pennsylvania and other related questions?

Can You Own a Capybara in Pennsylvania?

Yes, you can own a capybara in Pennsylvania and it is legal to own them as a pet but you need to apply for a permit or a license as Pennsylvania state doesn’t allow citizens to own exotic animals without permission.

Capybaras are exotic wildlife animals and not all states in the US or countries around the world allow exotic or wildlife animals to be kept as a pet due to wildlife laws and regulations.

Pennsylvania is a bit strict when it comes to keeping wildlife and exotic animals at your home as a pet.

You have to get a permit otherwise it may cost you hefty fines.

Now you know it is legal to own a capybara in Pennsylvania, let’s understand how can you get a permit.

How to Get a Permit to Own a Capybara in Pennsylvania?

As I said, you have to get a permit to own a capybara in Pennsylvania as it may cost you hefty fines.

I would suggest you contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission to know of any special requirements in your area. You can also contact any local authority in your area.

Now let’s see how you can apply for the permit to own a capybara in Pennsylvania:

First, you need to contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission as they are responsible for wildlife conservation and licensing.

They’ll let you know if there is any special requirement in your area.

Then submit the application to the department with the required documents. The permit fee may cost you $50 a year.

After submitting the application with the required documents and details, you’ll be contacted by the authorized officials, they may also visit your home for examination and inspection of the habitat of your pet capybara, enclosure, care facility, etc.

Are You Eligible to Own a Capybara in Pennsylvania?

You should have at least 2 years of hands-on work with the designated species, including care, feeding, handling, training, and husbandry.

You need to provide an experience document from a recognized or approved facility and the owner, manager, or licensee has to provide a letter of reference.

Is the Climate Good to Own a Capybara in Pennsylvania?

The climate in Pennsylvania has a humid continental climate but the temperature here varies widely and it is partly cloudy year round.

The temperature in Pennsylvania generally varies from 26°F to 86°F. Summers are warm and wet while winters are freezing and snowy.

While capybaras can tolerate 90-100°F on the higher side and 40°F on the lower side.

This means it can be a bit difficult for capybaras to tolerate the winters of Pennsylvania but if they are provided with shelters and warm bedding then it won’t be difficult for them.

Do consult a veterinarian for proper guidance.

Where to Find Capybaras in Pennsylvania?

You can find capybaras in zoos in Pennsylvania. There are zoos like Erie Zoo, Lake Tobias Zoo, Halifax, Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium that have capybaras.

Before visiting the zoo to see capybaras make sure to contact the zoo once to confirm if they have capybaras at the time.

Where to Buy Capybaras in Pennsylvania?

You can visit an exotic pet store near you to check if they have capybaras or you can ask them to bring one for you.

You can contact any exotic pet store outside Pennsylvania to import one.

Also, you can buy a capybara online from Exotic Pet for Sale or Capybara Breeders. Go through proper research before buying capybaras from anywhere.

You can also contact a zoo near you that has capybaras.

Make sure to check the capybara’s health and vaccination certificate, disease, if any, age, etc. before buying a capybara.

Where to Adopt Capybaras in Pennsylvania?

You can adopt capybaras from someone already breeding them, contact your nearest veterinarian, who can help you find a capybara to adopt, or contact a zoo in Pennsylvania.

Again, please check the breeder before making any purchase, check the capybara’s health condition, vaccination info, age, capybara’s parent and their health, the habitat he is living in, etc.

Law and Regulation to Own a Capybara in Pennsylvania

To own a capybara in Pennsylvania as a pet there are certain rules and regulations that should be followed to avoid any penalties.

It is basically related to the housing and care of the capybara.

It is unlawful to keep your capybara or any exotic pet in confinement, a cage, or an enclosure, unsanitary or in unsafe conditions that may result in mistreatment.

Your capybara should not be chained or restricted from moving freely within a cage or enclosure unless and until it is permitted.

Capybara should be kept in a house that is safe and has good sanitation.

You must have a bill of sale or other document showing the supplier’s name and address.

To Wrap Up

Now you must have got your answer to can you own a capybara in Pennsylvania? If you are going to keep a capybara as a pet make sure to follow all the laws and regulations and provide a good place for your pet to live.

If you have any queries, you can ask in the comment below.