Exotic animals were killed in a fire broke in an animal park in Mtaħleb, in the limits of Rabat. A Department of Information statement later said that most of the animals living on the property were rescued.

The Civil Protection Department has deployed several fire crews to control the blaze, reported at about 5.30am, the police said. A number of tigers born recently were rescued, but two leopards, an emu and a number of monkeys died.

A number of tigers, lions, a puma and bears moved into a pool of water and survived. The police said the number of animals which died is still to be established.

The home of the park owners, which is on the site, was destroyed. None of them was injured.

The cause of the fire is not known. 

A magisterial inquiry is underway, led by Magistrate Marseann Farrugia.

Noel Montebello, director of animal welfare, said that in spite of the difficulty of the operation because of the huge blaze, the fact that most of the animals were saved could be considered a success.

A dog with its puppies as well as fowls and exotic animals such as tigers and lions were also spared.

Parliamentary Secretary Clint Camilleri said the government is offering its assistance for the transfer of the saved animals.