An Australian zoo was locked down on Wednesday after five lions escaped.
Sydney’s Taronga Zoo said five lions, one adult and four cubs were found in a small area beside their exhibit, with a 1.8-metre tall fence separating them from the rest of the zoo.
“The zoo has strict safety protocols in place for such an incident, and immediate action was taken. We regularly conduct drills to ensure we are prepared,’’ the zoo said, noting that persons have been moved to safe places. Four of the lions calmly returned to their dens, and one cub was safely tranquilised but now awake and well.’’
Taronga Zoo said a full review was underway to confirm how the animals could leave their enclosure.
“All zoo staff acted swiftly, and procedures and processes were followed as they should have been,” it added. “As a result, the situation is under control within minutes.’’