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Capybara on the Loose: Zoo Asks Public for Help
20 Mar
Summary
- A capybara escaped a zoo shortly after its arrival.
- The zoo is asking residents to report sightings.
- Capybaras are gentle and pose no public risk.

A capybara named Samba has escaped from Marwell Zoo in Winchester, Hampshire, just one day after arriving. Samba and another capybara, Tango, were brought to the zoo on Monday and both managed to escape their temporary enclosure on Tuesday.
Tango was located near the facility, but Samba, described as more adventurous, was last spotted on Wednesday night in the nearby village of Owslebury. Zoo personnel were unable to capture her at that time.
Marwell Zoo has requested assistance from the local community, asking residents to report any precise sightings of Samba. They note that capybaras are intelligent, gentle animals and pose no risk to the public. However, they strongly advise against approaching or attempting to capture the escaped rodent to avoid causing it distress.
Officials suggest checking ponds and waterways, as capybaras enjoy water and are often more active at night. Residents are asked to keep a watch out when walking or driving in the local area and to report any sightings of Samba to the zoo.