Police deployed a helicopter following a wild cat sighting in north London - which turned out to be a pet.
The Metropolitan Police were called at 9pm on Monday following reports a large cat had been seen in a garden in Barnet.
The force was told the animal was a tiger or leopard, My London reported.
Knowing that the public would be at risk if the reports were accurate, the force sent a helicopter to the skies in search of the beast.
It transpired that the animal sighted is in fact a Savannah cat, a hybrid cross between a serval and domesticated cat.
They are not considered a threat to humans and make pleasant if energetic pets.
One local wrote on Twitter : "Originally we were told it was a tiger or leopard - but turns out to be a Savannah cat."
Another person added: "Rumours that a wildcat has been spotted on Winnington Road this evening.
"A friend who lives nearby says there are lots of police cars and a helicopter is over head #lockdownsafari."
According to rumours circulating on social media, the cat was owned by someone living on Bishops Avenue - which is referred to as 'millionaire's row' due to its large houses.
This morning a spokesperson for the Barnet police force said: "Police were called at approximately 21:00hrs on Monday, 25 May to reports of a large cat seen in a garden in Winnington Road, N2.
"Officers attended the scene.
"An animal expert also attended and visually assessed the cat; it was concluded the animal was not thought to be dangerous or a threat to the public.
"The cat made off from the garden; enquiries continue to locate it.
"No reports of attacks/ injuries to members of public."
As of 9am this morning the animal had not been found.
