Puma Attack

http://www.startribune.com/local/94103844.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUUr

Despite numerous signs and barriers, a man lifted a toddler too close to the Como Zoo's cougar exhibit, leaving the child scratched by one of the animals. That's what some patrons told officials they saw at the St. Paul zoo late Saturday afternoon.

According to witness accounts, a man who appeared to be a father lifted a 2- to 5-year-old boy over a railing toward the cougar exhibit. One of the animals "pushed through the mesh" fencing and scratched the boy before the man could pull the child away, said zoo spokesman Matt Reinartz.

By the time officials arrived at the scene, the man and the boy had left.

There are at least 10 signs in the area warning people to stay off barriers and to stay back a safe distance, Reinartz said. "When poor decisions are made," Reinartz said, "it puts individuals and the animals at risk."

The cougar involved returns to the exhibit Tuesday. She is one of two cougars at the zoo, both female adults.

Zoo staff members inspected the area to see whether any safety measures are lacking or whether they were "willfully breached," Reinartz said. Como is also reviewing safety barriers, its signs and mesh fencing in the
area to see whether any changes are needed, he said.