A total of seven sheep have allegedly been killed by a lynx – a medium-sized wild cat – which escaped from a wildlife sanctuary in Wales.
The Eurasian lynx – which is about twice the size of a domestic cat – has reportedly been accused of the killings by the National Sheep Association (NSA).
The feline fugitive has been on the run for over a week, having escaped from Borth Wild Animal Kingdom – which is located close to the Welsh coast.
Following an examination, it is alleged that the sheep were killed as a result of a single bite to the neck. Two of the sheep were reportedly partially eaten, while five others appear to have been killed out of instinct.
Efforts are continuing to capture the animal without causing it any trauma. The zoo has been closed for a number of days in order to let staff focus on the task at hand and the animal is believed to have remained relatively close by to the zoo.
A number of baited traps have been set up in the area and numerous sightings of the lynx have been reported. Drones have also been employed in an effort to spot the animal.
Anyone who spots the animal is encouraged not to approach it, as it may become aggressive if cornered.
The lynx is described as being tan and white in colour, with dark spots on its back and legs. It also has black tufts on its ears, as well a thick, stubby tail which is no more than six inches long – it is tan at the base and black at the tip.
It is believed the animal managed to leap over an electrified perimeter fence in its enclosure while it was climbing a tree.