Capybaras enter legislative building in Mato Grosso, Brazil

On July 30, 2026, two capybaras entered the legislative building of the state of Mato Grosso in Cuiabá, Brazil. The animals walked into the main entrance of the government facility, surprising lawmakers and employees who were preparing for a session and scheduled vote. Despite the unusual intrusion, the animals remained calm and caused no damage or disruption to the legislative processes.

Employee Nayara Bueno, who recorded the event on video, stated that such visits are not uncommon due to the building's proximity to a nearby park rich in wildlife. She successfully led the animals back to their natural habitat. Capybaras, the world’s largest rodents, are semi-aquatic mammals native to South America and are known for their social and docile behavior, often reaching weights of up to 80 kilograms. While the incident provided a momentary diversion, the legislative session proceeded without further incident, and authorities consider the matter resolved as these animals frequently inhabit the surrounding parkland.