Raccoon escapes from flooded Somerset zoo
The zoo has warned members of the public not to try to handle the mammal
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A raccoon has escaped from her zoo enclosure in Somerset by burrowing a tunnel under her enclosure.
Taking advantage of the water-logged ground in Somerset, the mammal named Missy dug a hole under her cage at the Tropiquaria in Washford, southwest Somerset, leaving her partner Rocky behind.
Chris Moiser, Zoological Director at Tropiquaria, has warned members of the public not to hand the 18-month old raccoon because she may bite.
He added that some animals with outside enclosures had to be evacuated from their homes because of the recent flooding in the county, but the zoo thought the raccoons would be safe.
“The sad thing is that we have had raccoons in that enclosure for two years with no trouble whatsoever,” Mr Moiser said.
“It is only with the recent flooding that the ground has softened sufficiently for her to dig out.
"Missy will not have any problems in surviving in the English climate but it does worry us that she is out.“
Mr Moiser said that six-year-old Rocky was extremely upset by her absence.
He added: "If you see her, could you please contact me on 07751 363198 and we will be out for her straightaway.
“Do not try and handle her as she may bite - just observe her from a distance. If she does enter an outbuilding, if possible do lock her in.”
The news comes as the Environment Secretary Owen Paterson visited the heavily flooded Somerset Levels and said that residents were "quite right to be angry" as people are deal with water in their homes.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments