Raccoon escapes from flooded Somerset zoo

The zoo has warned members of the public not to try to handle the mammal

A raccoon is seen in its enclosure at the Schwarze Berge wildlife park in Hamburg, northern Germany, on February 28, 2013. All animals of the park were counted, measured and weighed during an annual inventory. (SVEN HOPPE/AFP/Getty Images)

A raccoon has escaped from her zoo enclosure in Somerset by burrowing a tunnel under her enclosure.

Taking advantage of the water-logged ground in Somerset, the mammal named Missy dug a hole under her cage at the Tropiquaria in Washford, southwest Somerset, leaving her partner Rocky behind.

Chris Moiser, Zoological Director at Tropiquaria, has warned members of the public not to hand the 18-month old raccoon because she may bite.

He added that some animals with outside enclosures had to be evacuated from their homes because of the recent flooding in the county, but the zoo thought the raccoons would be safe.

“The sad thing is that we have had raccoons in that enclosure for two years with no trouble whatsoever,” Mr Moiser said.

“It is only with the recent flooding that the ground has softened sufficiently for her to dig out.

"Missy will not have any problems in surviving in the English climate but it does worry us that she is out.“

Mr Moiser said that six-year-old Rocky was extremely upset by her absence.

He added: "If you see her, could you please contact me on 07751 363198 and we will be out for her straightaway.

“Do not try and handle her as she may bite - just observe her from a distance. If she does enter an outbuilding, if possible do lock her in.”

The news comes as the Environment Secretary Owen Paterson visited the heavily flooded Somerset Levels and said that residents were "quite right to be angry" as people are deal with water in their homes.

See photos of the devastation caused by the January storms below: