Capybaras are known to be friendly and curious creatures. In a recent incident, a nine-month-old capybara named Samba escaped from Marwell Zoo, located near Winchester, Hampshire, just a day after arriving at the facility.
Samba’s escape occurred on Tuesday, prompting an immediate response from zoo officials. While Samba’s sister, Tango, was quickly recovered, Samba was spotted diving into the River Itchen, raising concerns about her safety and whereabouts.
Local resident Claudie Paddick filmed Samba sitting on the riverbank before it jumped into the water. Paddick initially mistook the capybara for a beaver while walking her dogs along the riverbank. “Marwell Zoo was really happy that it looked happy and not too stressed,” she stated.
Since the escape, Samba has been seen nearly three miles from the zoo, near a pub in Owslebury. Additionally, there have been reported sightings of her approximately 35 miles away in Stonehenge, indicating the capybara’s adventurous spirit.
In response to the situation, Marwell Zoo has deployed a specialist dog unit to track Samba’s scent and is utilizing thermal drones to aid in the search. The zoo has also urged locals to check their gardens, ponds, and rivers for any signs of the missing capybara.
Zoo spokesperson Laura Read emphasized the importance of public awareness, stating, “Please keep an eye out for her after sunset and be careful when driving.” The zoo has advised the public not to approach Samba if spotted but to contact their 24-hour hotline instead.
As the search continues, Marwell Zoo is conducting a review into how Samba managed to escape. The incident has raised questions about the zoo’s security measures and the safety of its animals.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact circumstances of Samba’s escape, but the zoo remains hopeful for her safe return.
