LEWISBURG ZOO FIELD GUIDE
Sit with Carla: A Close-Up Capybara Encounter at Wild Hearts African Farm
A roughly 25-minute, small-group session in Lewisburg where guests aged 6 and up can hold, pet and feed a young capybara while learning about its care.
Sit with Carla: A Close-Up Capybara Encounter at Wild Hearts African Farm.
At Wild Hearts African Farm in Lewisburg you can step into a calm, intimate encounter with a young capybara—an experience built around animal comfort and hands-on learning. Sessions are limited in size, run year-round, and let visitors hold, pet and feed the resident capybara while staff explain their care and behavior.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Meet Carla, the young capybara
This encounter centers on a single young capybara resident—guests may hold, pet and feed the animal under staff supervision, with the animal’s comfort the priority throughout.
Small, structured sessions
Sessions are intentionally limited—typically small groups that allow close attention from staff and a calm setting for the capybara; special group slots are reserved on select days.
Photos and memories you’ll keep
Staff are happy to take photos of the interaction so visitors can leave with a lasting record of the encounter while learning about the animal’s care.
What the day feels like
What the encounter feels like
You arrive at Wild Hearts, check in and are led to a low, quiet space where the capybara is comfortable. After a brief introduction and handling guidance from staff, the group spends roughly 25 minutes sitting on the floor with the animal—holding, petting and feeding under supervision—before a short wrap-up and photos.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this encounter suits—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Wear closed-toed shoes and be prepared to sit on the floor for the duration of the encounter; the farm also encourages guests to bring stockpiled plastic grocery bags to be recycled into a bench.
The farm maintains a capybara wish list of acceptable food and supplies visitors can donate; check the farm’s list before you go if you intend to bring items.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the capybara encounter?
The encounter will last approximately 25 minutes.
What ages are allowed to participate?
Encounters are for ages 6 and up; parents must be present with their child for the entire time and must purchase the encounter.
How many people can participate in a single session?
Sessions accommodate a maximum of 2–4 people at a time; Sunday sessions and select days are reserved for groups of 4 participants.
Can friends or family come to watch?
Up to two observers may watch; observers pay $10 each and can pay at the door upon arrival.
Is general admission to the farm included with the encounter?
General admission to Wild Hearts African Farm is not included with the encounter; you may add it on if it is available upon arrival—confirm availability before you visit.
Are encounters refundable if plans change?
Encounter sales are final and non-refundable.
When do encounters run?
Encounters run year-round; summer hours (starting May 28) list Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11am–4pm with last admission at 3pm.