Minnesota may be known for its beautiful lakes and snowy winters, but did you know it’s also a place where you can encounter the world’s largest rodent, the capybara? While the thought of having a capybara as a pet might cross your mind, especially after learning about these gentle giants, it’s important to understand the reality of capybara ownership in Minnesota.
Instead of pondering backyard capybaras, Minnesotans have a fantastic opportunity to experience these amazing creatures up close at Sustainable Safari in Maplewood. This animalInteraction destination offers an immersive Capybara Experience that’s both educational and incredibly fun for all ages.
The Allure of Capybaras: More Than Just a Pet
Capybaras, native to South America, are semi-aquatic mammals that are known for their social nature and calm demeanor. They thrive in groups and are often seen interacting peacefully with other animal species, which contributes to their friendly reputation. This gentle nature makes them appealing, but it also highlights the complexities of keeping them as pets.
In Minnesota, owning exotic animals like capybaras is regulated, and it’s crucial to check local ordinances and state laws regarding wildlife ownership. Capybaras have specific needs in terms of habitat, diet, and social interaction that are difficult to replicate in a typical home environment. They require ample space to roam, access to water for swimming, and specialized diets to maintain their health and well-being.
Experience Capybaras Firsthand at Sustainable Safari
Sustainable Safari provides an ethical and engaging alternative to pet ownership by allowing you to interact with capybaras in a professionally managed environment. Their Capybara Experience offers a unique opportunity to enter the capybara habitat under the guidance of trained staff.
What to Expect During the Capybara Experience:
- Up-Close Interaction: Step into the capybara enclosure and observe these fascinating animals in a naturalistic setting.
- Hand-Feeding: Get the chance to hand-feed capybaras their favorite snacks, creating a memorable and personal encounter.
- Educational Opportunity: Learn about capybara behavior, diet, and conservation status from knowledgeable Safari Guides.
- Family-Friendly Fun: The Capybara Experience is designed for ages 5 and up, making it a perfect outing for families seeking adventure and animal encounters.
Details for Your Visit:
- Price: $15 per person (in addition to general admission).
- Age Limit: Suitable for ages 5 and up.
- Location: Sustainable Safari, Maplewood Mall, Maplewood, Minnesota.
- Closed-toe shoes are required for all animal experiences that involve entering an animal exhibit, ensuring safety for both guests and animals.
More Animal Encounters at Sustainable Safari
Beyond the Capybara Experience, Sustainable Safari boasts over 200 animals and offers a wide range of interactive experiences to deepen your appreciation for wildlife. Your general admission ticket grants you access to view, feed, and pet many of the Safari’s diverse animal species.
Enhance Your Safari Adventure with “Extras”:
- Animal Holdings: Hold animals like baby goats, snakes, or even a joey kangaroo for a truly intimate encounter.
- Animal Feedings: Feed lemurs, parakeets in the Tree House, and alligators (with a pole!) for exciting, close-range interactions.
- Other Animal Experiences: Explore the Guinea Pig Village, relax with bunnies in Cottontail Cove, or meet Dill Prickle the Palawan porcupine (available at the Maplewood location).
Pouch Packages for Extended Fun:
For guests wanting to maximize their animal interactions, Sustainable Safari offers Pouch Packages like “The Happy Capy” and “Safari Bob’s Choice”. These packages provide tokens that can be redeemed for various animal holdings, feedings, and experiences, offering savings and a structured way to explore the Safari.
Plan Your Visit to Sustainable Safari in Maplewood, MN
Location:
- Sustainable Safari® at Maplewood Mall
- 3001 White Bear Avenue N
- Maplewood, MN 55109
- Located on the second floor of Maplewood Mall, southwest end (park in Kohl’s upper-level parking lot, door #2).
Hours:
- Sunday: 12 pm – 6 pm
- Monday – Saturday: 11 am – 7 pm
- Closed on Easter Sunday, 4th of July, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Admission:
- $16.50 for ages 5 and up (includes all-day entry, same-day re-entry, and a $4.00 feed cup).
- Free for children 4 and under.
- Discounts available for seniors, military, first responders, and educators (with valid ID).
Accessibility:
Sustainable Safari and Maplewood Mall are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the animal encounters.
A Memorable Animal Experience Awaits
While keeping a capybara as a pet in Minnesota might not be a practical or legal reality for most, Sustainable Safari offers the next best thing – an unforgettable experience interacting with these incredible animals and many other fascinating species. Plan your visit today and discover the joy of connecting with wildlife in Minnesota!
Learn more about Sustainable Safari and book your visit!
