Capybara Escapes from Marwell Zoo: Search Underway

Capybaras, known to be friendly and curious creatures, have recently made headlines due to an escape incident at Marwell Zoo, located near Winchester, Hampshire, UK. Samba, a nine-month-old capybara, managed to escape just a day after arriving at the zoo on March 22, 2026. Samba’s sister, Tango, was quickly recovered, but Samba’s whereabouts remain uncertain.

Witnesses reported seeing Samba diving into the River Itchen, with local resident Claudie Paddick capturing footage of the capybara sitting on the riverbank before it jumped into the water. Samba has since been spotted nearly three miles from the zoo, near a pub in Owslebury, and there have even been unconfirmed sightings 35 miles away in Stonehenge.

In response to the escape, Marwell Zoo has mobilized a search team consisting of 15 individuals, including a specialist dog unit that is tracking Samba’s scent. Additionally, the zoo has deployed thermal drones to aid in the search efforts. The zoo has urged locals to check their gardens, ponds, and rivers for any signs of Samba.

Claudie Paddick, who first spotted Samba, remarked, “I was taking the dogs along the river bank and noticed something that I thought was a beaver.” She added, “Marwell Zoo was really happy that it looked happy and not too stressed.” Laura Read, a spokesperson for the zoo, advised the public, “Please keep an eye out for her after sunset and be careful when driving.”

Officials have emphasized that should any member of the public see Samba, they should not approach the animal but instead contact the zoo’s 24-hour hotline for assistance. Marwell Zoo is also conducting a review into how Samba escaped, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future.

As the search continues, the community remains hopeful for Samba’s safe return. Observers are closely monitoring the situation, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.