A mysterious crate labeled “Wild Animals” and blasting out lions’ roars in a German town had locals running scared and animal lovers up in arms before it was revealed as an advertising stunt, police said on Tuesday, according to Reuters.

“The crate was right in the town centre, and people thought there were real lions inside,” a spokesman for police in the south-western town of Darmstadt told Reuters, adding: “It was loud. A lot of people were really scared.”

Police came to investigate after two women complained about the treatment of the animals apparently locked in the crate, the news agency said.

Gingerly approaching the crate, they ventured a look through a slit in its side but, instead of discovering caged beasts angrily stalking the container, they saw a promotional video for Land Rover vehicles intercut with shots of roaring lions, Reuters said.

A Land Rover spokeswoman told the news agency the campaign had been running for a few months and had so far proved a success.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

“We’ve generally only had positive feedback on it so far,” she told Reuters, adding: “We’ve never had this kind of response before.”

Just Auto Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Auto Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now