'Mystery solved' - Gardaí give update on reports of 'lion' spotted in Clare forest
Reports were made to gardaí who confirmed that enquiries were carried out but the mysterious animal could not be located, until now!
After a viral video sparked speculation that a "lion like animal" could be on the loose in a Co Clare forest, An Garda Síochána have finally set the record straight.
Social media users were sent into a frenzy last week when footage was circulated online appearing to show a large animal, similar to that of a lion, roaming a wooded area close to Mountshannon. Reports were made to local gardaí who confirmed that enquiries were carried out but the mysterious animal could not be located.
Until now!
In a hilarious social media post, a spokesperson for An Garda Síochána revealed that the identity of this creature has been confirmed.
They said, "If you go down to the woods today.....its not a lion you will find but the very friendly Newfoundland dog named Mouse.
"Gardaí from Killaloe have concluded that the recent video of a lion like animal roaming around the woods in East Clare is in fact the very friendly Mouse, a Newfoundland dog who is delighted with his recent viral video clip," they concluded.
From images posted online, Mouse's fur is neatly shaved on his body, with his head and tail remaining quite fluffy. It's now easy to understand why his unique appearance sparked confusion, and even comparssions to a lion!
Rest assured, those in Clare can sleep peacefully tonight as the so-called lion is nothing more than a very stylish doggy!