Audubon Zoo officials now say another animal has died as a result of the jaguar attack over the weekend. The big cat got out of its enclosure and attacked animals in a nearby habitat. In total, 8 other animals have now died.

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Tragedy at the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans when a male jaguar got out of its enclosure and attacked and killed several other animals at the zoo. So far 7 animals have died as a result of this attack: five alpaca, one emu, and one fox.

This statement has been released by zoo officials.

Our staff continues to mourn the loss of our animals. An investigation is underway and we will release information when available. Initial findings concluded keeper error was not a factor in this incident. 

As of early this morning, our fox, Rusty fared well overnight, he will continue to be monitored and treated by expert animal care professionals. The second fox, Copper, remains in critical condition. We have a team of veterinarians managing his care. Unfortunately, Daisy, our alpaca, did not survive overnight and succumbed to her injuries from the incident. Valerio, the male jaguar, will be sedated today by our vet team and examined for any injuries sustained during his time outside of the exhibit.

Grief counselors are at the zoo to work with staff and a child psychologist will be on hand for zoo campers Monday to help parents and children who are coping with this tragedy.

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The zoo was not open when Valerio escaped. It reopened on Sunday, but the jaguar exhibit was closed.

 

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