Camera traps that were being used to locate a missing capybara at a Hampshire zoo have been stolen, zoo staff have reported. The capybara, named Samba, escaped from Marwell Zoo after being transferred from Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park in Suffolk earlier this year along with another capybara named Tango. Tango was quickly recaptured, but Samba remains at large despite search efforts using thermal drones, camera traps, and public appeals for help.
Laura Reed, the chief executive of Marwell Zoo, confirmed the theft of two camera traps and appealed to the public to remain vigilant in the search for Samba. Despite receiving numerous reported sightings of Samba from the public, none have been confirmed. Search teams are actively looking for Samba, utilizing thermal drone technology and positioning camera traps in key areas where she is likely to be found.
The search has faced challenges, including the theft of camera traps and the possibility that some reported sightings may actually be Muntjac deer, which are similar in size and color to Samba. Despite these obstacles, zoo officials are determined to continue the search and bring Samba back to safety.