3 Leopards Escape China Safari Park, Zoo Faces Flak For Silence

One out of the three leopards is still on the loose after escaping a Safari Zoo in eastern China and authorities are hunting the wild cat. The zoo management is facing criticism from the public for concealing the incident.

A total of three young leopards broke out from the zoo during the long-week May Holiday in China. Locals living near the Hangzhou Safari Park reportedly spotted the young leopards and alerted the authorities.

According to the Washington Post, "as early as May 1, these wild cats were seen by villagers, however, the park management only informed the public on Saturday."

Immediately dispatched authorities and the search team tracked down two of the leopards, who are in good health.

The huge hunt has been launched for the remaining wild cat both through the use of drones and on foot.

As of Monday, search teams, as well as locals, were still working hand in hand to capture the juvenile leopard while an investigation regarding how these animals managed to escape was launched. It is said the person in charge is still in the custody of the authorities and is being probed.

A surveillance video was posted on Weibo, showing the leopard appearing on a tea plantation, BBC reported.

The delay of the announcement by the management received flak from the citizens for putting the public in danger especially at the time when the country is celebrating the Labor Day holidays.

During this time, thousands of tourists and visitors visit the city. Hangzhou is one of the largest cities in China, known for its big tea farms and a beautiful scenic spot of West Lake.

The management of Safari Park issued a public apology saying they were "sincerely sorry" for not announcing the situation right away, thinking the leopards that escaped were juvenile and could not do much harm.

Currently, the Hangzhou Safari Park is under indefinite closure, and the authorities are reviewing the park's management and safety.

Hangzhou Safari Park, which is home to nearly 200 animals, started their operation in 2002. The zoo houses various animals including, elephants and panda. Leopards reside inside their Dangerous Predator Zone in the park.