Capybara Trap: World's Largest Rodent Faces Capture in California
Paso Robles officials may set traps to contain the elusive capybara, the world's largest rodent, that was spotted at the Paso Robles Wastewater Treatment Plant three weeks ago, reports LA Times.
Wardens are prepared to set live traps for the animal, said Lt. Todd Tognazzini of the Department of Fish and Game., and relocate it to a local nonprofit animal group. Before traps can be set, however, there must be more confirmed sightings of the animal so officials can narrow down the area where it lives.
The immense rodents are not considered dangerous, but officials warn humans to keep their distance and contact authorities if they spot the furry beast.
“Like any wild animal, they’re going to defend themselves, so we wouldn’t want anybody to get close to it,” Tognazzini said.
Capybaras can reach the size of a small dog and are an adorable mix between a rat and a guinea pig. Like most rodents, they are nocturnal and are also semi-aquatic. It's illegal to own a capybara as a pet in the state of California.
Andrew Hughan, Department of Fish and Game spokesman, says that the rodents are not dangerous, "just weird looking," and notes the animals' probable background and intentions.
“Somebody probably brought it in as a pet and they either got away or people couldn’t deal with it anymore,” Hughan said. “It’s no harm. It’s just going to root around.”
