Reported Lion Sighting in Ireland Sparks Investigation
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A video circulating online has prompted an investigation by gardaí (Irish police) into reports of a large animal,potentially a lion,sighted in County Clare,Ireland. Initial reports incorrectly placed the sighting in County Meath.
Initial Reports and Confusion
On August 28, 2023, a video began circulating on social media appearing to show a lion roaming in a wooded area. Initial reports, fueled by media coverage, indicated the sighting occurred near Kells, County Meath. Extra.ie reported on the initial confusion, noting the video’s circulation and Gardaí’s acknowledgement of reports.
Gardaí have said that they’ve received no reports of a lion on the loose in Co. Meath, after footage circulated on social media claiming to show just that.
The footage is believed to have been recorded somewhere in the Kells area, in Co. Meath. pic.twitter.com/KEmvFv6PTP
– Boyne News (@boynenews) august 29, 2023
however, Gardaí clarified to RTÉ News that they had received no reports of a lion in County Meath. The reports were later confirmed to originate from the Mount Shannon area in County Clare.
The Sighting and Investigation
The video was captured by an employee of forest management company John O’Reilly, while working in the wooded area near Mount Shannon. The employee reported the sighting to the Kells Garda station, contributing to the initial misreporting of the location.Extra.ie detailed this aspect of the initial report.
Gardaí are currently investigating the reports and working to determine the identity of the animal. As of August 29, 2023, they have stated they are unsure what kind of animal was captured in the video.RTÉ News provides the latest updates on the Garda investigation.