The Vatican considers capybaras as “fish”—often eaten during Lent
Over time, parts of the Catholic Church have expanded the definition of “fish” to include critters like capybaras, beavers, and gators—allowing their consumption on Fridays during the Lenten season in areas that may lack an abundance of fish. The Vatican approved capybaras for consumption during Lent due to their semi-aquatic nature.
Beaver meat is an approved “fish” for lent
In 1760, a bishop in Quebec officially allowed beaver meat for local trappers based on the beaver’s aquatic lifestyle and scaly tail. This led to it being classified as “fish” for Lent.
In parts of Michigan, muskrats can be substituted for fish
In parts of Michigan, muskrats can be substituted for fish. For centuries, the Catholic Church has historically granted an exemption in parts of Michigan allowing muskrat consumption during Lent.
According to the Catholic Church, alligators are considered seafood
According to the Catholic Church, alligators are considered seafood. This is based on the rule that cold-blooded animals are classified as fish for fasting purposes.
