Zoo Deploys Specialist Dogs to Hunt Fugitive Capybara | ITV News

Escape and sightings

Samba escaped a temporary enclosure on Tuesday. Her sister, Tango, was caught back inside the zoo. Samba was then reported near the Ship Inn in Owslebury on Thursday.

On Sunday, a member of the public, Claudie Paddick, spotted the animal beside the River Itchen near Winchester. The zoo says the latest confirmed footage came from the water meadow area.

Search effort

Marwell Zoo deploys specialist dogs to track the fugitive capybara. Teams are also using sniffer dogs, drone operators and thermal drones during overnight and daytime searches.

Search crews are combing water meadows and banks of the river. The zoo says the operation remains active and ongoing.

How the public can help

Filmogaz.com reports the zoo asks anyone nearby to send photos and exact locations. Messages and sightings should be sent to 07436 167401. The public is advised not to approach Samba if they find her.

About Samba and capybaras

Samba is about nine months old and roughly the size of a small badger. Capybaras are herbivores from South America. They are often compared to giant guinea pigs.

These animals prefer long grass and water. They are more active at night, which complicates the search. The zoo adds they are gentle and do not pose a public threat.

Marwell Zoo asks for continued vigilance as teams work to bring Samba home safely.