London Fire Brigade(LONDON) — An early-morning fire at the London Zoo has left the attraction closed — and one aardvark unaccounted for.
Officials with the London Zoo said a fire broke out in a cafe at about 6 a.m. Saturday in the “Animal Adventure” section, and spread to another shop. Firefighters brought the blaze under control about three hours later.
Animals in the area were immediately relocated to avoid the smoke and fire.
“Duty staff that live onsite at the zoo were on the scene immediately, and started moving animals to safety,” the statement said.
Unfortunately, “at present one aardvark is currently unaccounted for.” London Fire Brigade station manager Clive Robinson said part of a nearby petting area was affected. The aardvarks, which are native to Africa and can grow up to 100 pounds or more, are available in the petting area.
The zoo said “a number” of staff members were being treated for smoke inhalation.
Fire officials said 72 firefighters worked to control the fire.
“The zoo will remain closed until further notice, and we will work closely with fire investigators to determine the cause of the incident,” according to a statement from the zoo.
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