Animal handlers in Pennsylvania are devastated after a male leopard killed the female he was supposed to be mated with, Erie Zoo authorities said on Tuesday.
The Erie Times News reported Edgar, a 5-year-old male, killed Lina, a 7-year-old female who was supposedly in heat, said zoo Executive Director Scott Mitchell. Zoo officials can’t understand why, especially given the two have been paired together in the past without incident, the newspaper said.
Mr. Mitchell said zoo staffers are completely torn over the incident, which took place in front of several of them — including a veterinarian who ultimately stepped in to help separate the leopards.
The male will remain at the zoo and continue to be put on exhibition, said Mr. Mitchell, in The Associated Press.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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