28/01/2019

Rare Red Panda Missing From Belfast Zoo

Members of the public are urged to be on the look-out for a red panda which has gone missing from Belfast zoo.

Belfast City Council and the PSNI said the rare animal went missing on Sunday, 27 January, and is "believed to be currently taking in the sights of beautiful Glengormley".

Residents in the area have been warned not to approach or attempt to capture the animal, as while it is not aggressive by nature, it may be defensive if cornered.

In a post on Facebook, the PSNI said: "Should you see this panda, please ring us on 101, and along with help from our friends at the zoo we will help transport the explorer home. These animals are nocturnal and would generally be located within wooded areas.

"Our curious friend has not yet learned the green cross code, so if motorists could also be vigilant, especially within the Glengormley area."



(JG/CM)


Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

27 August 2001
Belfast Zoo reopens farm area
Belfast Zoo has reopened the rare breeds farm area for the bank holiday weekend after a prolonged period of closure. The zoo farm area, particularly popular with younger visitors, has been closed as part of the precautions taken at the zoo since the foot-and-mouth outbreak in February.
30 May 2018
Tanker Carrying Animal Blood Involved In Crash In Co Armagh
A major incident has been reported in Co Armagh after a tanker, believed to be carrying animal blood, left the road and crashed into an embankment, bringing down power lines earlier today, 30 May.
27 March 2009
Belfast's War Time 'Elephant Mystery' Solved
The story of one of Belfast Zoo's World War II animal's survival has been uncovered - just in time to highlight the north Belfast facility's 75th anniversary. An appeal was launched to find the woman who looked after a baby elephant in her back garden during the period around the Blitz, (picture from Belfast Zoo).
17 June 2016
Eight Gentoo Penguins Hatch At Belfast Zoo
Eight gentoo penguins have hatched at Belfast Zoo. The breeding season started in February and the zoo believes they will be a "firm favourite" with visitors. Senior Keeper, Raymond Robinson, said: "Penguins are one of the most popular species at Belfast Zoo, especially the underwater viewing area where visitors can admire their swimming skills.
06 January 2010
Cold Eye Turned On Zoo Animals
Belfast Zoo re-opened today as freezing conditions eased - only to close again shortly before noon as a blizzard enveloped eastern parts of NI. The news came as Zoo keepers began undertaking a complete head count of every animal as part of the facility's licensing regulations.