UPDATE: “Grace” the bobcat was reportedly found near the ampitheatre across from the zoo and is safe.

ORIGINAL STORY: A 9-month-old bobcat from the Washington Park Zoo, has escaped from her exhibit enclosure.

Zoo Director Jamie Huss asks that anyone who spots “Grace” not attempt to capture her. Instead, immediately report any sightings to the Michigan City Police Department’s non-emergency phone number at (219) 874-3221.

Huss said the public need not be alarmed, as the baby bobcat poses no threat to humans.

“Grace is roughly the size of a large housecat,” she said. “Her prey would range from chipmunks to rabbits and smaller. We are concerned for her safety, and have continued to set live traps and trail cameras in hopes of a sighting and recapture.”

Grace and her sister Hazel arrived at the Washington Park Zoo in December, and have been housed in a habitat designed for their species since April.

Zoo staff realized in the morning that Hazel was alone in the enclosure, and immediately moved her to another building for safe-holding. They have not yet ascertained the location from which Grace could have escaped.

“Like coyotes and foxes, bobcats are native to this area,” Huss said. “Due to her age and size, Grace will likely not be a threat to humans or most animals as long as she is left alone. Bobcats are quiet, secretive and active from dusk to night; and as with all wildlife, the natural response of a bobcat is to move away from humans.”

In addition to police, Michigan City Animal Control and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources are aware of the situation and ready to assist. Calls are being directed through the MCPD because the phones there are monitored 24/7.