A tiger residing at the Bronx Zoo in New York, has tested positive for coronavirus, confirmed the Wildlife Conservation Society.
The zoo became concerned for a four-year-old female Malayan tiger after it developed a dry cough and loss of appetite.
It has also been confirmed, that six other tigers and lions at the same zoo are now also showing symptoms.
In a statement, WCS confirmed the news, saying: "Nadia, a 4-year-old female Malayan tiger at the Bronx Zoo, has tested positive for COVID-19.
"She, her sister Azul, two Amur tigers, and three African lions had developed a dry cough and all are expected to recover.
"This positive COVID-19 test for the tiger was confirmed by USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory, based in Ames, Iowa.
"We tested the cat out of an abundance of caution and will ensure any knowledge we gain about COVID-19 will contribute to the world’s continuing understanding of this novel coronavirus."
The Bronx Zoo have now turned their attention to keeping the staff who care for the animals protected from contracting COVID-19.
The Wildlife Conservation Society said they are "taking appropriate preventive measures" to prevent the staff and animals from spreading the disease.
The WCS say the tiger contracted the disease from a member of staff who was asymptomatic.
