Borth Wild Animal Kingdom
Lilleth went missing some time in the last three weeks
A council which ordered an escaped Eurasian lynx to be shot dead by a marksman has defended its decision.
Ceredigion council said it sought expert advice before ordering Lilleth be 'humanely destroyed' on Friday .
She escaped from Borth Wild Animal Kingdom (19459015) Meanwhile, Dyfed-Powys Police said it was investigating threats against the marksman
Meanwhile, Dyfed-Powys Police said it was investigating threats against the marksman
In a statement on Sunday evening, the council said Lilleth was "not afraid of humans" and had entered a populated area.
They said that the shooting had been approved beforehand by the police, the Welsh government and the chief veterinary officer for Wales.
A council spokeswoman said: "It was not possible to assess the condition or temperament of the lynx but there were concerns about its likely behavioral responses if it was startled or inadvertently confronted by a member of the public, e specially by a young child
"
" It added that the lynx is classified in legislation as 'dangerous and wild' and the authorities were dealing with an unmanaged escape situation. " (19459012)
She said: "On other occasions and in different circumstances it may be fitting to attempt to tranquilize an escaped animal. "
Flowers have been left outside the zoo in tribute to Lilleth
The council has been investigating the animal's escape "[Isaiah]
believed to have escaped after making a "giant leap" over an electrified fence.
There had been a number of sightings but she evaded capture and was at one point thought to be hiding in bushes near the zoo.
Ceredigion council and Dyfed-Powys Police said they had tried a "range of measures" to capture the Lynx, including baited traps.
The local authority has since said carry out an inspection of the zoo later this month.
