Authorities in Mexico are frantically searching for a large tiger that escaped from a zoo in Reynosa, a northern city near the U.S. border.
The tiger broke free from its enclosure at the Quinta La Fauna zoo early Wednesday morning, according to Mexico’s Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection.
Zoo staff immediately alerted local, state, and federal authorities, asking for public assistance locating the animal. They also issued warnings on social media about the dangerous feline.
Officials in Texas were also notified, as the zoo’s proximity to the Rio Grande River raised concerns that the tiger could potentially cross into the U.S.
The river is a major migrant crossing point, adding to the situation’s urgency. Lt. Enrique Longoria from the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office advised deputies to stay alert.
The tiger, a 3-year-old weighing around 440 pounds, has been spotted several times by residents who reported its location to authorities. However, the animal is still at large.
Officials noted that thick vegetation in the area is making the search more difficult. Aaron De La Cruz, who leads the environmental protection agency’s regional office, explained that although the tiger hasn’t shown any signs of aggression, it is still a frightened, large predator.
De La Cruz mentioned that the zoo usually works with the agency to care for animals with special needs, and this was the first time one had escaped.
Authorities assured the public that they are taking all necessary precautions to capture the tiger safely without putting anyone at risk. Meanwhile, the Quinta La Fauna zoo has remained closed since the incident.
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