Capybara escape mirrors incident 30 years ago

A capybara's escape from a zoo has striking similarities to an incident that occurred 30 years ago, the chief executive has said.

Nine-month-old Samba escaped from Marwell Zoo, near Winchester, Hampshire, earlier this month alongside her sister Tango.

Tango was found nearby, but the search for Samba is now in its second week despite multiple sightings.

Chief executive Laura Read has revealed that two capybaras escaped from the zoo about three decades ago and were later found along the same stretch of water at the centre of the current search.

Teams at the zoo are digging through their archives for more information about the previous escape.

The search for Samba has continued to capture the imaginations of people living in Hampshire and beyond.

Seven-year-old Sienna, from Southampton, drew a picture of the capybara, writing: "Please come home Samba. Tango is missing you."

Her mother Sammy, who shared the image, said: "Capybaras are her favourite animal. Let's hope Samba is found soon."

Twyford residents have been sharing AI generated images of Samba enjoying life in the village.

They include pictures of her playing bowls and leading a group of cyclists on a bike ride.

The story has even attracted attention in the US, appearing on CBS News Chicago, where a presenter described search crews in "the village of Hampshire" trying to find Samba - who was referred to as "Simba".

Samba was first spotted in Owslebury shortly after her escape, before later being seen near the River Itchen close to Twyford.

Marwell Zoo said there had been three confirmed sightings backed by photo or video evidence, all within a similar area.

On Thursday, chief executive Laura Read said teams were focusing their search along waterways between Twyford and Allbrook.

"We really know that that's ideal habitat for her," she said.

"It's calm, it's quiet, it's got the water, it's got plenty of food for her."

Read said teams were using thermal drones and reviewing camera trap footage, as well as preparing humane traps baited with food to try to lure Samba out.

"If anyone spots her please do take a picture or a video… and please don't approach her," she said.

The zoo said it is important the pair are reunited as capybaras are social animals.

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