Sheriff’s Deputies in Tulsa County Help Capture Escaped Kangaroo Near Busy Intersection
TULSA, Okla. — In an unusual sight for Oklahoma residents, deputies from the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office recently assisted in wrangling a loose kangaroo that was hopping near a busy intersection. The marsupial, later identified as Martha, was spotted near the crossroads of 171st Street South and Lewis, drawing the attention of both motorists and law enforcement alike.
The Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office shared the incident on their official social media channels, noting that Martha had escaped from a nearby property. Deputies quickly responded to the scene, ensuring the safety of both the animal and the public as they worked to contain the unexpected visitor.
After a short search, the kangaroo’s owner was located and arrived to assist the deputies in safely capturing Martha. The sheriff’s office confirmed that the marsupial was unharmed and was promptly returned home.
While kangaroos are native to Australia, their presence in the United States is typically limited to zoos, wildlife parks, or private exotic animal collections. This incident highlights the challenges local authorities face when dealing with non-native species that escape captivity. The U.S. Department of Agriculture regulates the ownership and transportation of exotic animals, ensuring public safety and animal welfare.
Such unusual animal escapes are not without precedent in the U.S. Earlier this year, a California zoo reported the escape of a hornbill, a large African bird, which was later found at a nearby country club. Similarly, wildlife officers in Virginia recently rescued a red fox trapped in a fence, underscoring the variety of animal-related incidents law enforcement and animal control officers encounter.
The Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office’s swift and careful handling of Martha’s escape was praised by local residents, who appreciated the deputies’ efforts to keep the community safe while ensuring the kangaroo’s well-being. For more information on exotic animal regulations and public safety, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides guidelines and resources.
As this story illustrates, even in the heartland of America, unexpected wildlife encounters can happen, requiring cooperation between animal owners and law enforcement to resolve safely.
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