A red panda is on the lam after escaping from her enclosure at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, according to local media.
Officials said that no threat is posed by the small animal which is 19 pounds and about the size of a raccoon. The 2-year old female, named Kora, also strongly resembles a raccoon in appearance.
The nocturnal animal was last spotted the evening of July 21 in her Asia Quest habitat and was discovered missing Wednesday.
Zookeepers and local officials are currently carrying out an extensive search of the thick vegetation in and around the animal’s enclosure, and throughout the grounds of the zoo.
Other animals living nearby within the Asia Quest habitats have been brought indoors to allow for a more intensive search by zoo personnel.
Red pandas are known for their climbing abilities and live in trees. They find tree hollows to sleep in during the daylight hours.
The strong storms overnight Tuesday into Wednesday might have caused tree branches to bend, leading to a potential path of escape, according to the zoo.
Nonetheless, officials have reason to hope the animal may decide to come back. The red panda is the recent mother of two cubs who are still nursing. The zoo’s animal care team believes she is likely nearby and might return because of her offspring.
The zoo said that it is setting up an overnight watch to monitor the area.
For our part, Crazy America is praying for Kora’s swift return so she can be reunited with those kids.