This is the hair-raising moment a jaguar tries to climb out of its enclosure while selfie-obsessed zoo-goers just a paw swipe away stand by filming it.

The shocking footage, filmed at Brasilia Zoo in Brazil’s capital, on 28th December, shows the big cat scramble effortlessly up a concrete pillar until it reaches a metal fence.

As it gets to the fence the deadly jungle predator is just a few feet from climbing up into the zoo’s public area.

But while some visitors scream and run away, others astonishingly move closer and start filming the escape bid without apparently realising what could come next.

One can be seen in photos posing right up against the railings with his back just one swipe away from the big cat.

A second jaguar can be seen waiting below apparently for its own chance to escape.

Further footage shows the jaguar snarling through the railings before it gives up when a security guard sprays it with water and it drops back into the enclosure.

A day later, on 29th December, zoo officials announced they had installed an electric fence around the enclosure.

A spokesperson said: “It is with a commitment to transparency and safety that the Brasilia Zoo communicates to the population. About the recent incident involving a jaguar this Thursday.

“We inform you that the jaguar did not leave the enclosure.

“What occurred was the animal approaching the upper containment grid and there was no risk to visitors.

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“The Zoo is taking immediate steps to ensure everyone’s safety.”

They added: “In addition to the existing security mechanisms, the Brasilia Zoo informs that the new barrier will begin to be installed from next week.

“Visits at the site can carry on because the electric fence does not pose any risks to animals and visitors.​ The electric fence was installed on Friday.

“We reiterate that the Zoo’s specialised team is closely monitoring the animals’ behaviour and maintaining constant vigilance to ensure everyone’s integrity.

“The safety and well-being of visitors and animals are absolute priorities.

“We appreciate the community’s understanding and reaffirm our commitment to wildlife preservation. And the safe and educational experience we offer to everyone who visits us.”

They added: “The security guard at the Brasilia Zoo acted promptly when trying to prevent the jaguar from approaching the security fence.

“Their action reflects their commitment to visitor safety.

“Although the jaguar eventually decided to descend on its own. The security guard’s intervention demonstrates the importance of constant surveillance close to the enclosures. Where care with the interaction between animals and the public is essential to guarantee a safe and harmonious environment for everyone.”