The police have asked Belfast residents to be aware.
Updated 28 January, 1pm
Belfast Zoo have reported that the missing red panda has been located and is being returned to its home in Belfast Zoo. The zoo thanked everyone for their help with the search.
We are happy to report that the missing red panda has been located and is being returned to its home at Belfast Zoo – thanks to everyone for their help with the search! pic.twitter.com/hHLcLmtDyv
— Belfast Zoo (@BelfastZoo) January 28, 2019
–end of update–
The PSNI have urged the public to help them locate a red panda that has gone missing from Belfast Zoo.
The authorities have asked people to be vigilant as their “curious friend has not yet learned the green cross code” and that it “may be defensive when cornered”.
The posts states: “Folks, earlier today, a red panda decided to take a surprise vacation from Belfast Zoo, it is believed to be currently taking in the sights of beautiful Glengormley.
“Should you see this panda, please ring us on 101, the PSNI along with help from our friends at the zoo will help transport the explorer home. These animals are nocturnal and would generally be located within wooded areas. Please do not approach or attempt to capture this animal, although they are not aggressive by nature they may be defensive when cornered.
“Our curious friend has not yet learned the green cross code, so if motorist’s could also be vigilant. Especially within the Glengormley area.”
According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, the species is facing a very high risk of extinction.
It is believed there are between 10,000 and 20,000 left in existence
Of course, we’re hoping for the swift return of the animal, and while the case of this missing panda is important, we can’t help but think of this.
Time to get Brian Fantana on the case.
We're asking any Glengormley residents to look out for a red panda who went missing from its home @BelfastZoo today. While not considered dangerous, we'd ask anyone who spots it to please not approach it, but call our @PoliceServiceNI colleagues on 101 https://t.co/SVhmq0Ifa1
— Belfast City Council (@belfastcc) January 27, 2019
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