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Fugitive Capybara Still Eludes Zookeepers
30 Sep
Summary
- Samba the capybara has been missing for six months.
- She escaped Marwell zoo in March 2026.
- The capybara remains elusive in the Hampshire countryside.
Samba, a capybara from Marwell zoo, has been on the run for six months since her escape in March 2026. Initially housed in a quarantined habitat after arriving at the zoo, Samba and her sister Tango disappeared. Tango was recaptured days later, but Samba broke for the marshy wetlands of the River Itchen and became a social media phenomenon.
The Hampshire countryside has provided a haven for Samba, with search efforts proving challenging. Zookeepers suspect the capybaras squeezed under a gate to escape. Drones and thermal imaging have aided the hunt, with one sighting near the River Itchen causing a shift in search tactics.
Despite numerous sightings, including camera trap footage in August 2026 confirming Samba is alive and well, she remains elusive. Marwell zoo emphasizes its commitment to animal welfare and conservation, dismissing accusations of carelessness. The zoo hopes Samba's story will highlight conservation efforts.
Winter weather poses a potential threat to Samba's welfare, though less dense vegetation may aid spotting her. Zookeepers are working to entice her back to the zoo, using scent and food. The ultimate goal is to reunite her with her sister, Tango, though reintegration will be a slow process.
