Capybaras are known to be friendly and curious creatures. Recently, a nine-month-old capybara named Samba escaped from Marwell Zoo, located near Winchester, Hampshire, just a day after her arrival. Samba’s sister, Tango, was quickly recovered, but Samba’s whereabouts remain uncertain.
Witnesses reported seeing Samba diving into the River Itchen. Claudie Paddick, who filmed Samba sitting on the riverbank, initially mistook her for a beaver. “Marwell Zoo was really happy that it looked happy and not too stressed,” Paddick stated.
Since her escape, Samba has been spotted nearly three miles from the zoo, near a pub in Owslebury. There have even been reported sightings of her 35 miles away in Stonehenge. The zoo has mobilized a search effort, deploying a specialist dog unit to track Samba’s scent and using thermal drones to locate her.
Marwell Zoo has urged locals to check their gardens, ponds, and rivers for Samba, emphasizing the importance of public vigilance. Laura Read, a zoo representative, advised, “Please keep an eye out for her after sunset and be careful when driving.” The zoo has also warned that should any member of the public see her, they should not approach the animal but instead contact the zoo’s 24-hour hotline.
In response to the incident, Marwell Zoo is conducting a review to understand how Samba managed to escape. The zoo has deployed 15 searchers to assist in the ongoing efforts to locate her.
As the search continues, the community remains hopeful for Samba’s safe return. Observers are closely monitoring the situation, and updates will be provided as they become available.