Isle of Wight: Four raccoons escape from Amazon World zoo
Four raccoons have escaped from Amazon World Zoo on the Isle of Wight.
The raccoons escaped from their enclosure on Monday night (August 15) and were last seen heading towards the River Medina.
Zoo staff are urging the public to be on the lookout for the raccoons and to report any sightings to the zoo.
Raccoons are not native to the Isle of Wight and could pose a risk to the island's ecosystem.
They are known to carry diseases such as rabies and canine distemper, and can also damage crops and property.
If you see a raccoon, do not approach it. Instead, call the zoo on 01983 855355.
What to do if you see a raccoon
- Do not approach the raccoon.
- Call the zoo on 01983 855355.
- Keep your distance from the raccoon.
- Do not feed the raccoon.
- If the raccoon is aggressive, call 999.
Raccoons on the Isle of Wight
Raccoons are not native to the Isle of Wight and their presence on the island is a cause for concern.
They are known to carry diseases such as rabies and canine distemper, and can damage crops and property.
The Isle of Wight Council is working with the zoo to trap the raccoons and return them to their enclosure.
If you see a raccoon, do not approach it. Instead, call the zoo on 01983 855355.
More information
For more information on raccoons, please visit the following websites: