by In Alabama, authorities had to close a major highway after a kangaroo escaped from a farm and caused a two-car collision accident. While these marsupials are common in Australia, their appearance on a highway in Alabama is an extremely rare occurrence.
The escaped kangaroo, named Sheila, usually resides in an enclosure on Patrick Starr’s farm, where his family operates a pumpkin patch and a petting zoo. It is unknown exactly how the animal got out, but it was clearly enjoying its freedom while exploring the nature of Alabama.
According to reports, law enforcement received a call about a kangaroo jumping along Interstate 85. The unusual animal caused a traffic accident, but fortunately, no one was injured.
Police completely shut down traffic in both directions. The owner managed to catch up with Sheila and calm her down using special medication, after which he returned her to the farm.
“She is back home, feeling well, eating and drinking. Sheila is a gentle animal, and I’m glad everything ended well,” Starr said.
Although the owner considers the kangaroo an ideal pet, the Humane World for Animals organization states that these animals should not be kept in captivity.
“Kangaroos are strong and powerful creatures. Since 2010, at least 74 escape incidents involving these animals have been recorded, resulting in the deaths of 17 of them,” the organization’s statement reads.
Interesting fact: Australia is home to over 35 million kangaroos—that’s 9 million more than the human population in the country. After Sheila’s adventure, we hope that Australian owners of such pets (if it is permitted) will be more vigilant to avoid similar incidents.
