Escaped Capybara Evades Zoo for 10 Weeks, Charms Village

A fluffy fugitive has captured hearts across Hampshire after outwitting her zookeepers for nearly three months.

Samba, an 11-month-old capybara, squeezed under a low gate at Marwell Zoo on March 17 and hasn't looked back. While her sister Tango quickly returned to the safety of nearby bushes, Samba had bigger plans.

The adventurous rodent has been spotted multiple times around Winchester, most recently three miles from the zoo in Brambridge. A dog walker caught phone footage of Samba lounging by a riverside before diving into the water and swimming away, clearly enjoying her unexpected vacation.

More than 20 zoo staff members have mobilized with thermal drones, camera traps, and ground searches. They're following fresh leads from locals who've spotted the capybara exploring gardens, ponds, and rivers in the area.

Capybaras are the world's largest rodents, weighing up to 175 pounds and measuring over five feet long. These South American natives are semi-aquatic and love water, which explains Samba's apparent happiness in the Hampshire countryside.

The search has become a community effort. Local residents have been reporting sightings through a dedicated 24-hour hotline, helping zoo teams narrow down search areas. The zoo asks people not to approach Samba, as only her familiar keepers should attempt recovery to avoid stressing her.

Sunny's Take

There's something wonderfully heartwarming about how this story has unfolded. Rather than panic, the community has rallied with patience and care. Zoo CEO Laura Read notes that Samba is more active at night and likely traveling along waterways, living quite naturally in her temporary home.

The zoo has launched a review to prevent future escapes while continuing their compassionate search efforts. Samba arrived at Marwell from Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park in Ipswich, and her keepers are determined to bring her home safely.

Her story has attracted international attention, turning a routine zoo escape into a tale of adventure that people around the world are following with smiles.

Winchester residents remain hopeful they'll spot the famous rodent, and the zoo remains grateful for every sighting that brings them closer to reuniting with their explorer.