Endangered red panda missing from Belfast Zoo 'located and returned to its home'
Police in Belfast had warned motorists to be vigilant
Last updated 28th Jan 2019
A rare red panda which escaped from Belfast Zoo has been 'found'.
Keepers say the animal has been returned to its home and have thanked everyone who helped in the search.
Police had issued an appeal after the animal went missing on Sunday, with officers saying it was "believed to be currently taking in the sights of beautiful Glengormley".
While they are not aggressive, red pandas can become defensive when cornered.
Two panda cubs were born at the zoo in June last year but only started to venture outside towards the end of 2018.
Red pandas are slightly larger than a domestic cat, with thick reddish-brown fur.
According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, the species is facing a very high risk of extinction.
It is believed there are between 10,000 and 20,000 left in existence.