The search is continuing for a missing capybara that escaped from Marwell Zoo last month.
Zoo bosses say teams are working around the clock to locate Samba, following up on reported sightings and using a range of specialist equipment to track her movements.
Efforts to find the animal include the use of scent-tracking dogs and thermal imaging drones, which are being deployed to search large areas more effectively, particularly during the night.
Samba, a capybara, the world’s largest rodent, is believed to have travelled some distance since her escape, with recent indications suggesting she may now be near the River Itchen in the Owlesbury area.
Staff say they are treating the situation as a priority and are continuing to respond to any credible sightings reported by members of the public.
Capybaras are native to South America and are semi-aquatic animals, meaning they are comfortable both on land and in water — something that may explain why search efforts are now focused around river areas.
Marwell Zoo has thanked the public for their support and vigilance, and is urging anyone who believes they may have seen Samba not to approach her, but to report the sighting to the zoo or local authorities.
Despite the length of time since her escape, teams remain hopeful that Samba will be safely located and returned.
The search operation remains ongoing as efforts continue to track her movements and bring her back home safely.
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