A manhunt is under way in Dublin for three men who stole a penguin from Dublin Zoo.
The birdnap happened at 8 am after the three scaled the fence of the zoo in the Phoenix Park and took the 10-year-old female bird from the penguin enclosure.
Terrified Kelli was placed into a sack and the men took a taxi from the zoo to North Dublin explaining to the driver that the bird was a rabbit they had caught in the park.
Daring Escape
Kelli the penguin was later found wandering on Rutland Street in Dublin by a member of the public – at this point it is unclear how she escaped or became seperated from her captors.
The bird was taken to Store Street Garda station from where she was returned to Dublin Zoo.
Back Home
Following examination from a vet Kelli was returned to the penguin enclosure.
She escaped the entire experience uninjured.
Not Amused
In a statement Dublin zoo said it was naturally relieved but added, “We wish to underline our annoyance about this incident. The welfare and health of all animals is our primary concern and this kind of incident is not frivolous and is certainly not something amusing.”
The zoo credited its own security measures and the rapid response of Gardai for Kelli’s safe return.
