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Fire breaks out at Kansas City Zoo

KC Zoo fire.jpeg
Posted at 4:58 AM, Feb 04, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-04 08:24:43-05

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Fire broke out overnight at the Kansas City Zoo.

Crews were called to the zoo just after 3 a.m.

According to zoo officials on scene, the fire happened in the "behind the scenes building," which houses some of the smaller Africa exhibit animals overnight.

The fire may have been caused by an external fire that caught some bedding on fire.

"Well, you could only imagine getting that call when you're sound asleep, and last thing you want to hear about is something that is potentially catastrophic, but we have plans in place to deal with that," Chief Zoological Officer Sean Putney said.

All of the animals are ok and accounted for, and a veterinarian is on site to assist.

Bat-eared foxes and meerkats were in the building. They did not suffer from burns or smoke inhalation, but recieved oxygen to be on the safe side.

The creatures are being moved to other building for safety.

The building will likely need its roof replaced.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.