WASHINGTON -- District of Columbia schools have canceled recess at 13 schools near the National Zoo because of an escaped bobcat, even though zoo officials say the animal poses no danger to humans.

School system spokeswoman Michelle Lerner says the decision to not let students outside on Tuesday was made “out of an abundance of caution.” She declined to comment on how long the policy would stay in place.

Zoo spokeswoman Pamela Baker-Masson says she spoke to the school system’s chief operating officer and emphasized that the animal is not dangerous. She says the zoo and the school system will keep in touch as the search for the missing bobcat continues.

Get Breaking News Delivered to Your Inbox

The National Zoo tweeted on Tuesday that the bobcat was still missing, and that overnight calls indicated she may be in the area.

Bobcat that escaped 1/30 has not returned. Overnight calls report she may be nearby to Zoo. See her? 202-633-7362. https://t.co/22DWxjpZro — National Zoo (@NationalZoo) January 31, 2017



Bobcats are native to North America, including the greater Washington area. They prey mostly on small rodents and birds.

The female bobcat, believed to be about 7 years old, was found to be missing Monday morning when it didn’t show up for breakfast. At the zoo, the bobcat is known as Ollie.