Helsinki Zoo's 15-strong flock of Chilean Flamingos has been discovered dead inside their enclosure on Friday 9 April.

According to a zoo spokesperson, it is likely that a wild fox made its way into the enclosure and "acted like it would in a hen house".

The zoo is located on the Korkeasaari island off the coast of Helsinki, but the sea freezes over during the winter months, making it accessible to wild predators such as foxes, lynx and mink.

The zoo's vet confirmed that the bite marks on the birds had been caused by a canine.

The birds were only let out into the outdoor enclosure last week.

The spokesperson added that the zoo will replace the flock with new birds but only after alterations will be made to the enclosure.

The open-top enclosure is currently 50cm tall, which is enough to prevent the flamingos from escaping but is too low to keep predators out. Clubs can sign up now at www.healthcluboftheyearawards.com