Zoo Says There Have Been ‘Several Credible Sightings’ of a Capybara That Escaped Nearly 3 Months Ago

**Capybara Escapes Zoo, Search Continues in Hampshire**

In an unusual turn of events, a capybara known as Samba, which recently arrived at Marwell Zoo in Hampshire, escaped on 17 March. This incident occurred just one day after Samba and her companion, Tango, were introduced to their new home from a wildlife park. Since her escape, zoo officials have provided an update, highlighting recent credible sightings of Samba that may aid in her recovery.

Marwell Wildlife, the organisation responsible for Marwell Zoo, reported on Friday, 5 June, that there have been numerous credible sightings of Samba in the Bradbridge area of Hampshire. This news has reignited search efforts, allowing the zoo’s team to focus their resources more effectively. “More than 20 members of the Marwell team have been actively searching the area, employing additional camera traps to support our efforts,” they revealed in a Facebook post.

The zoo indicated that while technological aids like thermal drones and camera traps are vital, the most effective approach is involving people on the ground. The recent sightings have enabled search teams to narrow the search area, focusing on clues such as footprints, droppings, and other signs of Samba’s presence.

Despite the advancements in the search effort, officials at Marwell stressed the challenges posed by the dense vegetation in the region. “The undergrowth in this area is exceptionally thick, making it difficult to locate Samba, even in likely spots,” zoo representatives noted as they shared footage of the search area.

The ongoing search for Samba remains a top priority for the zoo, and officials expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the support from the local community. “We are incredibly thankful for the continuous sightings reported by local residents, as these observations are crucial to our search efforts,” they stated.

Samba’s disappearance was first announced by Marwell Wildlife on 19 March, shortly after her arrival alongside Tango. The zoo described how the two capybaras managed to escape from their temporary holding area—while Tango stayed relatively close, Samba’s adventurous spirit led her further afield.

In light of the latest updates, zoo officials have called on the public to assist in locating the escaped capybara. They encourage anyone who spots Samba to take a photograph and report it to a dedicated phone number. “Your help could make all the difference in bringing Samba home,” they urged in their communications.

The continued public interest and involvement in Samba’s story demonstrate the bond between the zoo and the local community. Marwell Wildlife remains hopeful that these collaborative efforts will lead to a successful recovery of the lost capybara. As the search efforts persist, both Marwell Zoo and the community share a collective hope that Samba will safely return to her new home.