Samba, a six-year-old capybara, is missing after escaping from Marwell Zoo in Hampshire, zoo officials confirmed Wednesday evening. The female rodent slipped out of a temporary holding area alongside a companion Tuesday night, but while the second capybara was quickly recaptured, Samba evaded capture.
The zoo, located between Winchester and Eastleigh, said Samba was last seen near the village of Owslebury, about three miles southeast of the facility, Wednesday afternoon. Hampshire Constabulary and animal welfare teams have been notified as a precaution.
| Capybara | Status | Last seen |
|---|---|---|
| Samba | Missing | Owslebury, Hampshire |
| Tango | Recaptured | Inside Marwell Zoo |
Marwell Zoo staff described Samba as "highly intelligent," noting capybaras are capable swimmers known to cover long distances in water. The zoo emphasized Samba does not pose a risk to the public but urged residents to avoid direct interaction if spotted.
💡 Pro Tip
If you encounter Samba, maintain a safe distance, lower your voice, and avoid sudden movements. Capybaras are naturally wary of humans and may flee or hide if stressed.
Zoo director Emma Evison confirmed a coordinated search is underway, with teams focusing on wooded areas and waterways surrounding the 140-acre site. "Animal welfare remains our top priority," she said. "We’re asking the public to report any sightings immediately—photos help us track her movements without causing distress."
Key Points
- ✅ Samba escaped Tuesday night but Tango was recaptured within hours
- ⚡ Capybaras can travel up to 5 km per night in search of food or shelter
- 💡 Residents are advised to check gardens, ponds, and local streams
Local farmers near the River Itchen reported unusual rodent activity Wednesday, though none confirmed sightings. Capybaras, native to South America, have increasingly been spotted outside their natural habitat in Britain, often due to releases or escapes from wildlife parks.
📋 By The Numbers
- 3 miles — Distance between Marwell Zoo and Owslebury
- 140 acres — Size of Marwell Zoo’s grounds
- 5 km — Maximum nightly travel distance for capybaras
Evison urged caution, warning that attempts to capture Samba by untrained individuals could endanger both the animal and the public. "Capybaras may appear docile, but they can be unpredictable when cornered," she said. "We’re working with experts to ensure her safe return."
- 📍 Anyone with information is asked to call Marwell Zoo’s emergency line immediately
- 📸 Photos and precise locations are critical for tracking
- ⚠️ Avoid feeding or approaching the animal—wildlife experts stress this can disrupt natural behavior
The zoo has suspended public access to certain areas while the search continues. Evison thanked the community for their cooperation, adding that Samba’s welfare is the sole focus of the operation.