A deadly predator is on the loose, and authorities fear it could be inching dangerously close to the Texas border.

TONY THE TIGER IS AT LARGE

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A Bengal tiger has escaped from Reynosa’s Quinta La Fauna Zoo in Mexico, and it’s causing quite the scare along the Texas border. Officials believe the tiger, named Tony, might be getting dangerously close to the U.S., putting residents in the Rio Grande Valley on high alert.

UNABLE TO CAPTURE OR TRANQUILIZE THE TIGER

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The big cat was last spotted near the zoo, hiding among trees after crews attempted to capture it. Despite their efforts to tranquilize him, Tony managed to slip away into the dense brush. Authorities are doing everything they can, to track him down, setting up traps and motion-sensor cameras. But so far, this tiger is proving hard to catch.

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Tony’s escape has sparked concern, especially since he’s already attacked some local farm animals, including piglets and hens. Reynosa officials are warning people to stay away from wooded and mountainous areas, especially at night when Tony is most active.

INCHING CLOSER AND CLOSER TO TEXAS

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Even though Tony hasn’t been seen crossing the Rio Grande yet, Texas officials are on high alert. Tigers are excellent swimmers and can cover a lot of ground—so it’s not out of the question that he could make his way to Texas.

The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office has warned residents to remain cautious. While there’s no confirmation he’s crossed into Texas, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

 

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