Five deer found dead at zoo; cops probing

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of five deer that were once exhibited at the Georgetown zoo.

According to a press release, an independent post-mortem examination performed on the animals revealed that they died from massive internal haemorrhages, shock and trauma to soft tissues and asphyxia.

The five animals, including a three-week-old deer and a pregnant captive bred, were found dead in their exhibit by security guards and zoo keepers on Saturday morning.

This specific group of animals was said to have represented a strong and successful captive breeding programme at the zoo and were often used in the Education and Awareness Programme as well as in the Zoo camps for students and adults alike.

The deer were known for their tameness and served as a popular attraction particularly among children since they possessed engaging and friendly traits. The younger deer formed part of the children’s petting zoo.