Runaway Capybara Sparks Search Across Hampshire Villages
A quiet corner of the Hampshire countryside has found itself at the centre of an unusual search, after a capybara named Samba slipped free from her enclosure at Marwell Zoo earlier this week and remains at large.
The animal was last sighted on Wednesday evening near the village of Owslebury, more than two miles from the zoo, suggesting she has wasted no time exploring her unexpected freedom.
Samba had only recently arrived at Marwell, alongside another female capybara called Tango, having been transferred from Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park in Suffolk on Monday.
The pair were being housed in a temporary holding area while they settled into their new surroundings. By Tuesday, both had managed to escape..
Keepers acted swiftly, successfully locating and returning Tango to safety. Samba, however, proved rather more elusive, evading capture and disappearing into the surrounding landscape.
In a statement, the zoo confirmed that staff immediately launched a coordinated search, securing the enclosure area and extending efforts into nearby land.
Local authorities were notified in accordance with licensing requirements, while teams continue to comb the area in hopes of a safe recovery.
Despite her sudden taste for independence, Samba poses no threat to the public.
Capybaras are known for their calm and gentle temperament, though zoo officials have urged anyone who spots her to keep their distance to avoid causing unnecessary stress.
Members of the public are strongly advised not to attempt to approach or capture the animal.
Residents and visitors in the surrounding area are being asked to remain vigilant, particularly near ponds, streams, and other waterways where capybaras are naturally drawn.
Any sightings should be reported immediately via telephone on 07436 167401. Alternatively, photos and precise locations can be shared using tools such as Google Maps or What3Words to assist the search team in bringing Samba home safely.
