Colorado Deputies Track Down ‘Kangaroo’ Only to Find Instagram-Famous Wallaby
HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. — What began as an unusual call to local law enforcement quickly turned into a heartwarming encounter when Douglas County sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of a “kangaroo” roaming a residential neighborhood. Upon arrival, deputies discovered that the so-called kangaroo was actually Charlie, a wallaby known far beyond Colorado for his sizable Instagram following.
According to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were initially perplexed by the report, which described a marsupial on the loose in the community. But the mystery was soon solved when Charlie’s owners were already in the process of returning him safely to his home. The deputies were even invited inside to meet the amiable wallaby, an encounter one officer described as “the highlight of my year” in body camera footage.
Wallabies, native to Australia and smaller relatives of kangaroos, are uncommon pets in the United States, which made Charlie’s escape all the more newsworthy. The incident highlights the growing trend of exotic pets gaining popularity on social media platforms, where animals like Charlie develop devoted followings. His Instagram account showcases his everyday antics and has attracted a community of fans eager to see life through the eyes of this unusual companion.
While exotic pet ownership is regulated by various state and federal agencies, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Charlie’s owners appear to have taken swift action to ensure his safety and the safety of the neighborhood. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office used the opportunity to remind residents about the importance of securing pets and reporting unusual animal sightings promptly.
Incidents involving escaped exotic animals are not entirely uncommon in the U.S., with law enforcement agencies often called upon to assist. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service oversees regulations related to animal health and welfare, including matters involving exotic species. Meanwhile, local animal control and wildlife services play critical roles in managing such situations safely and humanely.
Charlie’s brief adventure in Highlands Ranch serves as a charming reminder of the unexpected moments that can brighten a community’s day. As social media continues to blur the lines between the ordinary and extraordinary, animals like Charlie become ambassadors of curiosity and joy. For now, the wallaby is safely back home, his Instagram followers undoubtedly relieved and eager for his next post.
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