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Kangaroo Causes Traffic Disruption on Alabama Interstate
A kangaroo named Sheila brought a section of Interstate 85 in Alabama to a standstill this past Tuesday, leading to a response from state law enforcement and the animal’s owner.
According to the Alabama law enforcement agency, Sheila was seen hopping along the roadside in Macon County, situated between Montgomery and Auburn. Her unplanned adventure resulted in significant traffic delays, prompting officials to close both lanes of the highway to safeguard passersby.
Capt. Jeremy J. Burkett from the Alabama law enforcement agency reported that both the owner and law enforcement were successful in capturing the roaming marsupial. “When someone first mentioned a kangaroo, I honestly didn’t believe it. But then there it was, right in front of me,” said Macon County Sheriff Andre Brunson during a live Facebook update as they worked to secure the animal.
The owner utilized a tranquilizer dart to safely sedate Sheila for capture. Brunson’s video showcased the kangaroo being gently transported to a vehicle, ready to return home. The capture took place near the Tuskegee area, just off the interstate.
“We encounter all sorts of situations here,” Sheriff Brunson noted, emphasizing the unique nature of the incident.
The owner, Patrick Starr, informed the Associated Press that Sheila had escaped from her enclosure. “She’s home now and safe. She’s awake, eating, and drinking, and thankfully, not injured,” Starr stated. Furthermore, he mentioned that Sheila received medical attention from the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.
The Starr family operates a pumpkin patch and petting zoo, although Sheila is primarily a beloved pet, as Patrick elaborated. “She’s a sweet companion. I’m just relieved to have her back and thankful that everyone exercised caution during this incident,” he expressed.
Source
www.theguardian.com