EDINBURGH Zoo has warned Pokemon Go fanatics not to jump into animal enclosures.
The iconic attraction told gamers they won’t tolerate visitors hopping over fences or breaking past barriers while hunting out rare characters.
Officials also reminded players to make sure they’re aware of where they are – surrounded by dozens of dangerous animals including lions, tigers and rhinos.
Posting the advice ahead of next week’s Pokemon Go night, they said: “Although some animals may still be visible please note that all main and walk-through enclosures will be closed during this event.
“Please remain aware of your surroundings when playing Pokemon Go.
“Edinburgh Zoo will not tolerate anyone going over fences, past public barriers or behaving in an unsafe manner.”
The event comes just weeks after Edinburgh Zoo was voted one of the top ten attractions in the UK to find rare Pokemon.
Taking full advantage of the reality apps popularity, event organisers set up a free evening so that Pokemasters, over the age of 16, could hunt down the virtual monsters.
But the app has not always mixed well with zoos.
Two Pokemon Go players were arrested at Toledo Zoo in Ohio for “criminal trespassing” last month after being spotted climbing over a fence near the zoo’s tiger enclosure in the search for monsters.
Advertising their event, Edinburgh Zoo said: “On Wednesday the 17th of August we will open our gates from 6pm to 8pm for Pokemasters. It’s an amazing opportunity to spend the summer evening catching Pokemon at Edinburgh Zoo.
“From Abra to Zubat come explore our 2 Gyms and over 20 Pokestops. Keepers will be placing lures throughout the night – gotta catch ‘em all!”
Although the event is free, a suggested £5 donation was advised.
Jo Paulson, Events & Experiences Manager at RZSS Edinburgh Zoo, said: “We have decided to hold a Pokémon Go event which has proved so popular that it sold out completely in just six hours.
“We think it will be a great way to reach out to a new audience and engage them with our mission of connecting people with nature and safeguarding species from extinction.
“The safety advice issued on our website is part of our standard health and safety protocols which apply to any visit to Edinburgh Zoo.
“As is the case with any event held at the zoo, thorough risk assessments have been carried out to ensure the safety of both our visitors and animals.”
Pokemon Go has captured the imagination of millions around the world since its release earlier this year.
The app has come under fire however, with gamers accused of showing disrespect after hunting down players at Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland.
People in Bosnia have also been warned to avoid venturing into areas littered with landmines to try and catch the likes of Pikachu and Charmander.
