Raccoons on the run from British zoo after break-in

Aug. 31 (UPI) -- A British zoo said one of two raccoons that disappeared during a break-in have been spotted wandering within two miles of the facility.

The Tropiquaria Wildlife Park, which earlier announced raccoons Bowser and Wookie had been stolen or released during a Monday night break-in that also saw the theft of some gasoline, said a couple traveling about 2 a.m. Wednesday reported they spotted one of the non-native creatures wandering about two miles from the Watchet, England, zoo, Somerset Live reported.

Tropiquaria director Chris Moiser told ITV that officials are concerned the ongoing controlled killing of wild badgers in the area could prove dangerous for the raccoons, which could be confused for badgers at nighttime.

Officials said they are hoping the raccoons will turn up in live badger traps set in the area.

Investigators said the raccoon enclosure seems to have been purposefully tampered with, but they are unsure of whether the animals' exit is connected to the theft of half a tank of gasoline from a vehicle at the zoo.

Avon and Somerset Constabulary said the break-in is under investigation. Anyone with information about the incident or the whereabouts of the missing animals are being encouraged to contact police.