Brazilian lawmakers preparing to conduct official business found themselves sharing the halls of a state legislature with several uninvited — but unusually relaxed — guests.
A group of capybaras entered the Mato Grosso Legislative Assembly in Cuiabá on July 30, briefly drawing attention away from an upcoming vote as they explored the government building.
Video recorded by legislative staffer Nayara Bueno showed the animals moving calmly through the entrance while workers sought to steer them outside.
“They show up here quite often, so we’ve gotten used to seeing them,” Bueno told The Associated Press.
The rodents’ guest appearance did not cause any damage to the Mato Grosso state legislature, according to officials.
The legislature borders a park that is home to wildlife, giving the animals easy access to the surrounding government complex.
Native to South America, capybaras are semiaquatic mammals commonly found around wetlands and other bodies of water. They are highly social, generally travel in groups and can reach weights of about 175 pounds.
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The world’s largest living rodents have also become internet favorites, with social media users frequently highlighting their laid-back behavior around other animals and people.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
