Kangaroo Captured Hopping Along Texas Road Sparks Search for Owner
LIBERTY COUNTY, Texas — In an unexpected turn of events, local authorities in Liberty County found themselves in pursuit of an unusual fugitive: a kangaroo hopping freely down the middle of FM 1010. The Cleveland Police Department responded swiftly after receiving reports of the loose marsupial, an animal rarely seen outside of its native Australia, let alone on a Texas roadway.
Officers, aided by animal control personnel and members of the public, successfully corralled the kangaroo, ensuring its safety and that of motorists. The incident has since prompted a search for the animal’s owner, as kangaroos are not native to the region and are typically kept only in private collections or exotic animal facilities.
The Cleveland Police Department has requested anyone with information about the kangaroo’s origins to contact the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities are emphasizing the importance of responsible exotic pet ownership and the potential hazards posed by such animals when found loose in public areas.
This event echoes similar instances across the country where unusual animals have been found wandering in unexpected places. For example, Michigan State Police recently captured a miniature donkey named Dolly Parton after it escaped from its farm in Oakland County, Michigan. Likewise, wildlife officials in California successfully tranquilized a mountain lion roaming San Francisco neighborhoods.
These occurrences highlight the challenges law enforcement and animal control agencies face when dealing with non-native species. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service regulates the ownership and transport of exotic animals to prevent risks to public safety and native ecosystems.
Meanwhile, the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office is coordinating with local animal control to ensure the kangaroo’s well-being while the search for its owner continues. The public is encouraged to report any relevant information to assist in resolving this unusual case.
For more on exotic animal regulations and public safety, see resources from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which provide guidance on handling and reporting exotic animals. The incident serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges that can arise in communities and the importance of vigilance and cooperation between citizens and authorities.
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