Farmer’s Chilling Encounter: “It Turned and Stared!”
The local farmer, out on his tractor, says he beeped his horn to scare off what looked like a full-grown lion. “I was driving along when this huge animal burst from the bushes. Yellow fur, mane – it was no dog! I hit the horn, and it turned around slightly, locked eyes with me, then bolted into the forest,” he told locals.
Footage circulating online shows a large cat-like figure trotting into woodland – but is it real?
Reports suggest panic in Kells: Residents are staying indoors, with schools on alert and searches ongoing – but waiting for official information.
Could It Be From Emerald Park?
Nearest suspect: Emerald Park (ex-Tayto Park), 20km from Kells in Ashbourne, houses cheetahs, tigers, and big cats – Ireland’s top exotic zoo! No escape confirmed today, but social media links the video to Meath forests near there. Zoo denies any breach.
Past scares: Ireland’s seen big cat sightings for years – lynx? Escaped pets? – but strict laws make private lions unlikely.
Frequently Asked Questions: Lion Loose in Kells, Co Meath
Is there really a lion running loose in Kells?
No official confirmation. As of October 30, 2025, gardaí and local authorities have received zero verified reports of a lion or any escaped exotic animal in Co Meath. The viral video and farmer’s claim remain unverified.
Could the animal be from Emerald Park?
Possible, but unlikely. Emerald Park (20km away in Ashbourne) is home to Amur tigers, cheetahs, and ocelots — no lions. The zoo issued a statement: “All animals are accounted for. No breaches.”
What should I do if I see a big cat near Kells?
Do NOT approach. Stay in your vehicle or indoors. Call 999 or 112 immediately. Report location, direction, and description. Avoid forests and rural paths until cleared by authorities.
Are there wild lions in Ireland?
No. Ireland has no native big cats. All exotic animals are in licensed zoos or wildlife parks. Private ownership of lions is illegal without DAFM permits — and none exist in Meath.
Why do lion sightings keep happening?
Misidentification is common. Large dogs, foxes, or even escaped lynx (from private collections) fuel rumors. Social media hoaxes amplify panic — like today’s Kells tractor video.
UPDATE:
Gardai have confirmed that they have recieved no reports of a lion and have told the public not to worry! Further information suggests that the video is a hoax that the footage was taken in another country a number of years ago!!
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