'Adventurous' capybara on the run after zoo escape

A female capybara is on the run after escaping from a zoo.

Samba arrived at Marwell Zoo in Hampshire from Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park in Suffolk with fellow capybara Tango on Monday.

The zoo said the pair of rodents managed to escape from their temporary holding area on Tuesday and although Tango was quickly retrieved, Samba was "more adventurous".

She was spotted in the nearby village of Owslebury on Wednesday evening but remains missing. The zoo said local authorities have been informed.

Capybaras - the world's largest rodents - are known to be intelligent animals and strong swimmers.

Marwell Zoo said Samba did not pose a risk to the public.

In a statement, the zoo said its team has been searching the zoo and the surrounding area and had "quickly" secured the area where they escaped.

The zoo said animal welfare was its "highest priority" and its team was working hard to bring Samba back "as quickly and safely as possible".

"We strongly advise against approaching Samba or disturbing any area she may be hiding, to prevent causing her stress," it said.

"Under no circumstances should a member of the public try to capture her by themselves."

People walking or driving in the area are being asked to keep a watch out and to check ponds or local waterways.

Samba is likely to be more mobile at night, the zoo added.

Anyone who believes they have seen Samba is asked to contact the zoo immediately and send a photo with details of the location.