Capybaras Invade Mato Grosso State Legislature During Votes

Capybaras have repeatedly entered the legislative chamber in Cuiabá, the capital of Brazil's central state of Mato Grosso, interrupting voting sessions. Staff member Nayara Bueno recorded two animals walking across the tiled floor on July 30 and helped guide the 175‑pound rodents back to a nearby park. The animals are attracted to the lake and fountain in front of the assembly building, where they often feed and wade. The legislature reported no damage or disruption to its proceedings beyond the brief animal visits.

The incident has drawn online attention, with videos of the capybaras circulating on social media, highlighting the unusual coexistence of wildlife and a government building in the region.