Massive Search for Escaped Lioness in Germany
In an unprecedented turn of events, a massive search operation is underway in the suburbs of Berlin, Germany, for a lioness or another large feline creature that has been spotted roaming freely. The German police have deployed armored vehicles, drones, and helicopters to aid in the search. Residents in the suburbs of Kleinmachnow, Stahnsdorf, and Teltow have been urged to stay indoors and keep their pets inside.
The Sightings
The alert was raised when a local resident spotted a wild animal attacking a boar in the Richard-Strauss-Weg in Kleinmachnow, on the outskirts of Berlin. Another motorist was able to capture footage of the animal, leading to a state of high alert among emergency services. Further sightings of a creature resembling a lioness have been reported on social media, and the police have confirmed that they believe the creature to be a lioness.
Der normalste Donnerstag #löwin #stahnsdorf pic.twitter.com/XQRmp3hvWh
— Marc (@Marc1892) July 20, 2023
The Search Operation
Despite the sightings, no trace of the creature has been found yet. The police have disseminated warning messages via loudspeakers and social media, and a regional warning app has also been activated. Local authorities have advised residents not to venture into the woods or go jogging. The search area has been expanded by the Federal Bureau for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance. Five hunters armed with tranquilizer guns, along with veterinarians, are scouring the area. The police aim to capture the predator in a "animal-friendly manner".
A Massive Undertaking
Given the potential danger posed by the animal, no expense is being spared in the search. Helicopters, drones, thermal cameras, hunters with tranquilizer guns, and veterinarians are all part of the search team. Additionally, about 30 police cars and 200 officers have been deployed. The police have experience dealing with stray cows, but not with predatory cats, hence the large-scale response. Traps are not currently being used, as they are not expected to be effective in the short term.
The Mystery
The origin of the creature remains a mystery. Speculations about it having escaped from a circus have been made, but the police are keeping all possibilities open. Checks are being conducted at all zoos, circuses, and animal shelters, but no missing lion has been reported so far. It is illegal for individuals to keep lions in Berlin, but there is no such regulation in the state of Brandenburg, where the suburbs in question are located.
Public Concern
The media and Berlin residents are concerned that the animal might make its way to Berlin. Extensive advice on what to do in case of encountering a lion is being provided. Numerous wildlife experts have been consulted. The police have also mentioned a recent sighting in the state of Berlin, which borders Kleinmachnow.
