March 20 (UPI) — A zoo in England is asking nearby residents to report any sightings of a capybara that escaped from the facility just one day after arriving.
The Marwell Zoo in Winchester, Hampshire, said female capybaras Samba and Tango arrived at the facility Monday and both escaped Tuesday from their temporary holding area.
Tango was quickly located nearby, but Samba “was more adventurous,” the zoo said on social media.
The zoo said Samba was spotted Wednesday night in Owslebury, a nearby village, but zoo personnel were unable to capture her.
Capybaras, native to South America, are the world’s largest rodents.
“Capybaras are intelligent gentle animals, with a taste for adventure. They do not pose a risk to the public, however we strongly advise against approaching Samba or disturbing any area she may be hiding, to prevent causing her stress. Under no circumstances should a member of the public try to capture her by themselves.,” zoo officials wrote.
The zoo is asking anyone who spots Samba to report her precise location.
“Please do keep a watch out when walking or driving in the local area and check ponds or local waterways as capybaras love to spend time in water. She is likely to be more mobile at night,” the post said.
