Exotic birds fly for freedom after visitor accidentally opens door at tourist attraction
A PAIR of exotic birds have made a flight for freedom from a popular tourist attraction after a visitor accidentally opened a fire door.
A pair of red-crested turacos escaped through a fire exit
The two red-crested turacos escaped from Tropical World in Roundhay Park, Leeds, after seizing an unexpected opportunity for a fresh adventure.
Their successful breakout was confirmed when a resident in nearby flat spotted them perched in a tree outside his bedroom window.
But 48 hours later they still remain at large and fears are growing for their safety.
We would ask that members of the public refrain from feeding them
Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities coun Debra Coupar said: “The birds have been sighted around Tropical World and Roundhay Park so we know they are near and are hoping to return them home soon.
“The birds are metallic green with a red crest, so they are very distinctive.
A pair of exotic buirds are ruffling feathers after escaping from Tropical World in Leeds
“We would ask that members of the public refrain from feeding them where possible as they have a specialised diet and unsuitable foods can harm them.
“We have catch cages in place in the area that are laden with their favourite food so they have plenty to eat and we hope to bring the birds home as soon as possible.”
The birds have been at large for 48 hours and staff are concerned about their safety
The pair escaped through a fire exit left open by a visitor
Despite being a purpose-built environment the turacos are not the first inhabitants of Tropical World to try and make a break for freedom.
Last year four meerkats tunnelled their way out of their enclosure and were only prevented from escaping by an eagle-eyed member of the public who noticed the cheeky quartet hiding in cactus beds.
Staff were able to catch them using nets and safely return them to their home.