Earlier this week, New York City was hit with severe flooding, prompting Governor Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency.
In the midst of the flooding, a sea lion also managed to escape from Central Park Zoo, Insider reported. However, the Wildlife Conservation Society ensured that the sea lion never left the zoo’s perimeter and was closely monitored by zoo staff during its brief adventure before returning safely.
During the flood, subway stations were immersed in water. The flooding even caused closures to Terminal A at LaGuardia Airport and the shutting down of FDR Drive in Manhattan, along with other road closures and transportation disruptions. The increasing threat of rising sea levels in New York and other areas has made it more likely for excessive rainfall to cause sudden and extreme flooding, reports note.
Unfortunately, this is not the first time that floods and natural disasters have resulted in zoo animals escaping from their enclosures.
In June 2015, heavy floodwaters destroyed much of a zoo in Tbilisi, Georgia, leading to the escape of numerous animals including lions, tigers, bears, and a hippopotamus. Tragically, the flood also claimed the lives of at least 12 people.
Authorities had to take drastic measures, such as tranquilizing a hippo that was wandering down one of Tbilisi’s main streets, and shooting six wolves to protect public safety. Several other animals also drowned during the flooding.
These incidents serve as reminders of the urgent need to address the consequences of climate change and the potential dangers it presents to both human and animal lives.
#Clique, what are your thoughts?
