Ferae naturae is a Latin term meaning nature [wild] animals which refers to any animals that are not designated domesticated animals by law. Ferae naturae are generally considered the property of no one, however, a person can obtain a property interest in a given ferae naturae by capturing one.
Like domesticated animals, the owner/possessor of a ferae naturae can be held liable for the actions of that animal. As established in Candler v. Smith, negligence by the owner is presumed when farae naturae causes injury to someone. This rule is in contrast to the rule with domesticated animals which does not create an assumption of negligence on the part of the owner.
[Last updated in January of 2023 by the Wex Definitions Team]
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