Marwell Zoo, located near Winchester, has announced the arrival of a new male capybara named Ripple. Ripple has been transferred from Blackpool Zoo and will provide companionship for Tango, whose sister, Samba, has been missing since March 2026. The zoo stated that Ripple's arrival is primarily focused on ensuring Tango's welfare while simultaneously stressing that finding Samba remains a top priority for the team.
Samba, a one-year-old capybara, gained considerable public attention after escaping from a temporary holding area at Marwell Zoo on 17 March, just a day after her arrival. While Tango, her sister, was quickly recaptured, Samba, described as the more adventurous of the pair, has successfully evaded capture for several months. Her escapades have included sightings outside a pub and sunbathing by a river bank, captivating local residents and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Zoo staff confirmed that Ripple will undergo a gradual introduction to Tango, allowing them ample time to form a bond. Once they are comfortable together, the pair will move into a newly prepared enclosure at the front of the zoo, which features a large pool and extensive space for exploration. This move is timed to coincide with the start of the summer holidays, offering visitors the chance to see the new capybara duo.
Despite significant efforts involving thermal drones and a specialist sniffer dog, Samba's whereabouts remain unknown. The most recent credible sighting occurred at the end of June, reported by a fisherman, which led to search teams being deployed to the Brambridge area on 6 July. However, these extensive operations have not yet resulted in her successful capture. The zoo has reiterated that welcoming Ripple does not diminish their ongoing commitment to locating Samba and ensuring her welfare.