Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 13, 2024 1:10 am GMT
The search for Cinnamon, a one-year-old capybara who escaped from Hoo Zoo in Telford, Shropshire, has temporarily paused due to safety concerns. Since her adventurous getaway on Friday, keepers have been carefully monitoring her movements, but the potential for her to wander into a dangerous area has raised red flags.
Cinnamon’s Great Escape
Cinnamon made headlines after she escaped from her paddock through an opened gate that was being used by a tractor. The zoo’s team has been actively searching for her since, but their efforts took a turn when fresh tracks and droppings were found a mere 200 meters away from her enclosure. This prompted the use of advanced technology, including drone surveillance, to assist in the search.
On Tuesday and Wednesday nights, the drone spotted her resting in a nearby field. “Last night our keepers were again working through the night to try and recapture Cinnamon,” the zoo announced on Facebook. Despite positive sightings, the ongoing search was complicated by the dense undergrowth in the area, making it difficult for zookeepers to approach her without causing stress.
Concerns for Safety
Zookeepers expressed their concern about Cinnamon’s current location, which is close to a Ministry of Defence site. “We’re worried if she moves into that area, we might not be able to recapture her,” said Will Dorrell, a partner at Hoo Zoo. The decision to pause the search was made to protect Cinnamon from unnecessary stress or potential danger. “At present she is comfortable, content, not short on food and not at risk to predators,” Dorrell added.
Despite the pause, zoo staff are not abandoning their efforts completely. They have deployed several live traps in the area and will continue to check them while the search operation is on hold.
The charming Cinnamon has captured the hearts of many around the world.
Clever Capybara Tactics
To assist in the search, the team at Hoo Zoo has employed some unique methods:
- Drones: Thermal imaging drones have successfully spotted Cinnamon on multiple occasions.
- Live Traps: Large cages are set up as a stress-free way to capture her without causing panic.
- Attractants: The team is experimenting with using scents from other capybaras and food like apples and pears to lure her into traps.
- Sound: Attempts have been made to use capybara sounds to draw her closer, though initial efforts have not yielded results.
Dorrell explained that these methods require a careful approach to avoid overwhelming the animal. “It’s actually easier to do in smaller groups for the simple reason you’d end up tripping over each other,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of a strategized team effort.
The Capybara: A Charming Species
Cinnamon’s disappearance has sparked significant interest, revealing to many just how unique capybaras are.
- Size: Capybaras are the world’s largest rodent species, growing up to three feet in length and can weigh up to 55 pounds.
- Habitat: They are native to South America and thrive in diverse environments including grasslands, tropical rainforests, and wetlands.
- Diet: Known to consume grass and aquatic plants, capybaras have a specialized digestive system that allows them to enjoy their own droppings to absorb more nutrients.
- Social Creatures: These animals are highly social, usually found in groups and are known for their gentle temperament.
Although they are not endangered, raising awareness about capybaras can help educate people about their ecosystems and habits.
Community Support
The community around Hoo Zoo has shown tremendous support for the ongoing search. Many locals have expressed their concern for Cinnamon, highlighting the bond that has formed between the capybara and her admirers around the world. The zoo thanked the public for their support, acknowledging how much Cinnamon has “captured the hearts of so many people.”
As searches are set to resume on Friday night, keepers are hopeful for a successful outcome, aiming to catch Cinnamon in a way that minimizes stress and ensures her safe return to the zoo. As much as her capricious spirit shines, it’s essential for the safety of both her and the local environment to act prudently during the search.
Cinnamon the capybara has gone missing, and her story has captured the hearts of the local community and animal lovers everywhere. The zoo, along with people in the area, is working hard to find her. Instead of being scared of capybaras like we might be with other rodents, many people are drawn to their fun and friendly nature. This situation shows how important it is to care for wildlife and understand their needs. The zoo is dedicated to bringing Cinnamon back home safely, where she can keep charming everyone who comes to visit.
