Caught on Cam: sea lion escapes from Central Park Zoo pool amid severe flooding in New York City

A sea lion escaped from its pool at the Central Park Zoo on Friday amid severe flooding in New York City caused by flash floods.

The marine mammal managed to swim out of its Central Park Zoo pool thanks to flooding of the plaza caused by torrential rains and flooding in the city, according to the Wildlife Conservation Society.

'Zoo staff monitored the sea lion as she explored the area before returning to the familiar surroundings of the pool and the company of the other two sea lions', Jim Breheny, director of the Bronx Zoo and executive vice president of the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Zoos and Aquarium, said in a statement.

The water has since receded and the animals are safe in their exhibit, he said.