Flood at Tbilisi zoo killed every lion and tiger as death toll rises

All of the lions and tigers missing from Tbilisi’s zoo after severe floods destroyed their enclosures have been found dead. One jaguar remained unaccounted for but zoo staff hold out little hope it will be found alive. The discovery of the big cats as flood waters receded eased concerns in the Georgian capital that some of the dangerous animals were still on the loose.

If a predator attacked a person, then it’s understandable, but there are cases that need looking into.

Zoo director Zurab Gurielidze

Residents had been advised to stay indoors and call an emergency number if they came across any of the escaped animals. Zoo spokeswoman Mziya Sharashidze said eight lions, all seven of the zoo’s tigers and at least two of its three jaguars were killed. Only two of the zoo’s 14 bears survived, while nine of its 17 penguins died, she said. A young white lion named Shumba, which was one of the main attractions, was found shot in the head at the zoo on Sunday.

Tblisi Asia-Pacific