YouTube video by Paul Collins

Samba, a capybara who escaped from Marwell Zoo in Winchester six months ago, remains at large in the Hampshire countryside. The 2025-born capybara, along with her sister Tango, made a daring escape from their quarantine enclosure on March 16, 2026. While Tango was captured within days, Samba has evaded capture through her natural stealth and ability to blend into the local environment. The zoo staff, led by CEO Laura Read and senior zookeeper Darren Ives, have conducted an extensive search involving drone surveillance, thermal imaging, and community involvement. Despite finding Samba on camera traps near the River Itchen, her elusiveness has been remarkable. Capybaras, native to South America, are known for their speed and ability to hide in water, which Samba has utilized to her advantage. The zoo has been working to lure her back with food and scent trails, while also addressing public misconceptions about her sightings. The incident has sparked both public interest and criticism, with the zoo defending their animal welfare record. Samba's story has become a symbol of conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of capybaras in their native habitats, which face threats from deforestation. The zoo emphasizes that Samba's escape was unforeseen and not due to negligence, and they continue to search for her while preparing for winter, which may make her more visible but also poses risks to her survival in harsh weather.

YouTube video by Jurassic Zoo Adventures

YouTube video by Jurassic Zoo Adventures

YouTube video by Jurassic Zoo Adventures

YouTube video by Jurassic Zoo Adventures

YouTube video by Jurassic Zoo Adventures

YouTube video by Jurassic Zoo Adventures

YouTube video by Jurassic Zoo Adventures

YouTube video by Jurassic Zoo Adventures