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Capybara Conundrum: A Gated Community's Unusual Dilemma

In Argentina, an affluent neighborhood grapples with an overpopulation of capybaras, the world's largest rodent.

By Jack Nicas and Anita Pouchard SerraSource: nytimes.com1 min read
Capybara Conundrum: A Gated Community's Unusual Dilemma
Image via nytimes.com

In brief

Residents are torn between adoring these lovable creatures and solving the problem of their growing numbers.

In the exclusive Nordelta community near Buenos Aires, a unique situation has arisen. Capybaras, the world's largest rodent, have taken up residence, and their increasing population is causing concern among locals. Luciano Sampietro, a veterinarian, is in the thick of it, employing a blow dart to sedate capybaras for sterilization—a necessary step to control their numbers. While capybaras are celebrated online for their serene presence and adorable antics, their burgeoning family units have raised eyebrows in this wealthy suburb. Residents enjoy watching these chilled-out critters, but the neighborhood is split: some love having the capybaras nearby, while others wish for a solution to the "too many capybaras" dilemma.As Nordelta continues to grow and evolve from a lakeside retreat into a bustling residential area, the challenge of cohabitation with nature becomes a critical conversation. Residents can't help but wonder if some creatures are just a bit too lovable for their own good!

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