Samba escaped from Marwell Zoo in March, prompting a search that has so far proved unsuccessful despite numerous efforts and public sightings.
The most recent confirmed sighting was supported by photographic evidence in the Colden Common area on March 22.
Will Walker, head of animals and plants at Marwell Wildlife, said: “Since then, we’ve received many possible sightings, but without photos or video, it has been difficult to confirm whether these reports are Samba or muntjac deer, which can look very similar.
“On Thursday, April 23, we received new information from a river bailiff who reported seeing an animal feeding on vegetation along the riverbank.
“Due to the dense foliage, the animal itself was not visible, but the bite marks and the height of the grazed plants were consistent with capybara feeding.
“The bailiff noted that this was not behaviour they had observed from other species they’ve studied, so we are hopeful this may have been Samba.”
Tango the capybara, the sister of the escaped Samba (Image: Marwell Zoo/Charlotte Bennett)
Another possible sighting was reported on May 6 along Highbridge Road, but searches in the area found no trace of the animal.
A camera trap has now been installed in the area to help monitor any further activity, but efforts have been hampered after two of the devices were stolen last month.
The zoo continues to use thermal drone technology and camera traps and focuses searches on waterways and dense vegetation.
Some sightings are believed to have been muntjac deer, which share a similar size and colouring with capybaras.
The local area provides plenty of natural vegetation and habitat for a capybara, allowing Samba to find both food and shelter easily.
This also means she is likely to stay well hidden, making the search more challenging.
Despite this, Marwell remains fully committed to the search and to bringing her home safely.
Marwell has asked the public to send photographs and precise locations if they believe they have seen Samba to 07436 116740.
This includes sending the location from either What3Words or Google Maps.
Samba’s companion, Tango, remains in her private habitat.
She continues to do well while work is completed on her new home at the front of the park.
A Marwell spokesperson said: “Thank you for your continued support and patience. We are working hard to bring Samba home and will continue to update as and when we have more information.”