Mogo Zoo staff are preparing for the “worst case scenario” as fire crews battle an out-of-control bush fire near Woodlands, south of Batemans Bay.

Owner Sally Padey said they had spent the afternoon locking animals into dens, preparing animal food packs and gathering fire-fighting equipment.

“We are a little concerned,” Ms Padey told the Bay Post/Moruya Examiner.

“We’re putting everything into place to prepare for the worst case scenario.

“Residents can rest assured there won’t be any lions or tigers running away.”

Large animals including rhinos, lions, tigers and giraffes had been locked away, Ms Padey said. Of highest concern was the panda enclosure, with its surrounding vegetation.

Ms Padey said the fire threat was the worst the zoo had encountered since 1994, when a blaze ripped through the area. Staff are now turning their attention to the farm enclosure.

She was hopeful the winds would continue to blow the fire away from the zoo. 

More details as they come to hand.