Safety warnings issued after lynx escapes from Dartmoor Zoo day after it arrives

A lynx has escaped from Dartmoor Zoo the day after it arrived, sparking warnings for public safety.

The wild cat escaped from its enclosure at the zoo and is thought to have left the grounds.

Thirty staff and volunteers have been searching for the animal at the zoo, but no trace has been found.

The two-year-old male only arrived at the zoo on Wednesday.

Devon and Cornwall Police have advised the public not to approach the lynx if they see it, as it could become dangerous if alarmed or corned.

Officers have visited nearby schools and urged them to keep children inside, as well as visiting nearby homes to offer safety advice.

Mr Hyde added that the lynx was last fed on Wednesday, the zoo was prepared for escape situations, and that the risk to the public was "very, very low".

A police helicopter is also assisting with the search.

The missing cat is a grey/silver colour and around the size of a small labrador.