Zoo gets new capybara as search for Samba continues

A zoo has welcomed a new capybara as teams continue to search for one that escaped earlier this year.

One-year-old Samba has attracted interest around the world after she went on the run in the Hampshire countryside in March.

A male capybara, Ripple, has now been taken in by Marwell Zoo, near Winchester, from Blackpool Zoo.

Staff said Ripple would provide companionship to fellow capybara Tango, whose sister Samba has continually avoided capture, despite multiple sightings.

The zoo said Ripple would be gradually introduced to Tango, allowing them time to develop a bond.

A spokesperson said: "Once they're comfortable together, they'll move into their fantastic new home at the front of the zoo, complete with a large pool and plenty of space to explore, ready for the start of the summer holidays."

They said the new arrival was "first and foremost" about ensuring Tango's continued welfare, but emphasised that finding Samba remained a priority.

"We know many people will be wondering about Samba," they said.

"Welcoming Ripple does not mean we have stopped searching for her. Our efforts to find Samba continue, and her welfare remains a priority for the team."

Samba escaped from Marwell Zoo on 17 March just one day after arriving.

She slipped out of a temporary holding area alongside her sister Tango, who was quickly recaptured.

But for Samba, the "more adventurous" of the pair, the search has continued for several months.

The young rodent has been spotted outside a pub and sunbathing by a river bank.

Most recently, search teams were deployed to the Brambridge area on 6 July following a credible sighting from a fisherman at the end of June.

But despite huge search efforts involving thermal drones and a specialist sniffer dog, Samba is yet to be successfully captured.