easy
30 minutes
No special fitness level required, suitable for all ages from 6 and up.
Meet Carla the Capybara at Wild Hearts in Lewisburg, Ohio, for an unforgettable hands-on wildlife encounter. Pet, feed, and learn about these remarkable rodents in a family-friendly setting.
Experience an unforgettable up-close encounter with Carla the Capybara at Wild Hearts! Perfect for ages 6 and up, this unique opportunity allows you to hold, pet, and feed these beloved rodents. Capture special memories with photos while learning about their care. Don’t miss the chance to meet this adorable resident!
Capybara Encounters! Learn about these amazing & beloved rodents during a special up-close encounter at Wild Hearts with Carla the Capybara. For ages 6 and up! Maximum of 2 people at a time per session.
1 Person $49 (when available) 2 People $79
If you have friends/family coming along to just watch they are $10 each and can be paid for at the door when you arrive. If you would like to see the rest of the zoo (General Admission), please arrive an hour before your encounter and see the zoo first. Encounters do not include general admission to the rest of the zoo. General Admission is available on Fridays & Saturdays except the following dates 9-20-25, 10-3-25, 10-4-25. Parents must be present with their child and purchase the encounter.
Be among the first to meet our newest (and chillest) Wild Hearts resident— an adorable young capybara! 🥰 Secure your spot now and get ready for an unforgettable experience. Encounters may include holding, petting and feeding - always with the comfort of our animals in mind. We are happy to take photos of this special memory for you.
Must wear closed toed shoes and be able to sit on the floor with capybara. The encounter will last approximately 10-15 minutes.
🌱 Help us go green! Bring your stockpiled plastic grocery bags when you visit—we’re recycling them into a bench to help reduce pollution and protect the environment. ♻️
Please note General Admission to Wild Hearts African Farm is not included with the encounter. You may add it on if it is available upon arrival. Please confirm with us if it is an option and plan to arrive an hour EARLY if you would like to visit the rest of the zoo.
Capybara Wish List: apples, bananas, sweet potatoes, corn on the cob, squash, turnip greens, broccoli, carrots, red grapes, & paper towels. Thank you!
Encounter sales are final and non-refundable.
Always follow the guide’s instructions while holding or feeding Carla to ensure a safe and gentle interaction.
Capture these special moments but avoid flash photography to keep Carla calm and comfortable.
This experience is suitable for children aged 6 and up, ensuring they can participate safely and enjoyably.
Dress in easy-to-clean clothing in case of unexpected animal contact during the session.
Lewisburg is a small town with roots in agriculture and outdoor recreation, providing a quiet backdrop for unique wildlife experiences.
Wild Hearts emphasizes education and humane treatment to promote respect for wildlife and support conservation efforts locally.
Wear shoes suitable for light walking and standing during the encounter.
To capture photos of the encounter, without flash.
Recommended for outdoor waiting areas during sunny summer days.
summer specific
Use before and after handling animals for hygiene and safety.