Sumatran tiger escapes after truck accident in northern Tasmania

6 February, 2015. 17:21

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A RARE SUMATRAN tiger has escaped from its transport enclosure after a truck accident in Tasmania.

The truck rolled over in wet conditions about 10km south of Deloraine, in the north-central region of the island state.

Residents of the sleepy hamlet in north-central Tasmania have been warned to stay indoors until the all clear is given by police.

Local farmers have tracked the animal as it continues south down the Meander River towards The Walls of Jerusalem National Park.

A response team is now en route from Anglesea Barracks in Hobart, which consists of specialist troops from The Royal Tasmania Regiment and air support from Tasmania Police.

The giant feline was set to the latest drawcard for Tasmania Zoo in Launceston.

Director of Tasmania Zoo, David Spearman said that he hopes for the best outcome.

“Hopefully, we’ll recover the tiger unharmed,” said Mr Spearman.

“I have full confidence in the military and police to do the best job they can,”

“It was very expensive and I’m not sure whether this will be covered by insurance.” he said.

However, animal activists and conservationists have called for the authorities to stop the search.

Greens candidate for Lyons, Pip Brinklow said in Davenport this afternoon that she doesn’t anybody to interfere with the tiger.

“We’ve had tigers in Tasmania in the past,” said Brinklow.

“The tiger is in a habitat that’s very similar to Sumatra – we should leave it there,”

“Should I win the next election, I will protect the tiger.” she said.

With additional reporting from AAP.