Capybaras are the world's largest rodents, semi-aquatic in nature and requiring substantial water access for thermoregulation and behaviour.
Capybaras denied aquatic access cannot thermoregulate effectively and are denied a core natural behaviour. Insufficient pool size prevents swimming and full aquatic behaviour. Social housing in appropriate groups meets their highly social nature. Zoos providing large pools, grassland access, and appropriate social groups support capybara welfare effectively.