The iconic FNQ pub the Lions Den has today revealed that a group of blokes over enjoying themselves have fessed up to snapping off and taking the famous pubs mascots tail last week. 

It is reported the owners received a sheepish phone call days after removal apologising and promising its return with payment for any damages.

The owners think the guilty confession was the result of enormous backlash on social media by pub patrons who have visited the icon over years disgusted by the 'whale tale'. 

The Den Crew announced on social media that “…it’s still a bit of a shock walking past and seeing our great 'Leo' without a tail, and we would like to thank everyone for caring about our great icon. However we have received a call from the person that accidentally broke the lions tail, and the tail is being returned. We would like to thank them for their honesty and let them know that they are more than welcome to return to the den to have another beer. At the end of the day all we really wanted was an apology and that's what we have received. It was all a big accident and Leo will be reunited with his tail very soon. Until then, Leo will be on standby awaiting the arrival. Thanks again everyone for your continuing support."

The Lion's Den has been a 'must stop' stop over from Port Douglas to Cooktown and was built in 1875 on the banks of the Little Annan River, surrounded by 100 year old mango trees and tropical landscape.

Made of timber and iron the decor is famous for it’s quirky decorations, memorabilia and walls adorned with visitors signatures.