Runaway emu safely recovered after Rockland escape
RAMAPO, Rockland County (WABC) -- A runaway emu that escaped from a Rockland County petting zoo was safely captured and returned after leading Ramapo police on an unusual pursuit Saturday morning.
The bird escaped at about 8:45 a.m. Sept. 12, prompting a response from officers with the Town of Ramapo Police Department. Police said patrol officers quickly located the emu after it left the zoo but needed some teamwork to bring its impromptu adventure to an end.
According to the department, officers used a Skydio Drone to track the emu's movements from the air while coordinating efforts on the ground.
"We don't know why the chicken crossed the road, but the emu crossed the road because Sgt. Anton didn't give it an option," the department said in a social media post.
Police described the bird as a "feathered fugitive" and said officers were ultimately able to safely get it under control.
"With some help from our Skydio Drone as First Responder (DFR)...officers were able to track the emu's movements and safely get it under control. Sgt. Anton ultimately made it very clear that its unauthorized tour of Ramapo was officially over," the department wrote.
The emu was returned to the petting zoo without incident.
"The emu was safely recovered and returned to where it belonged. No injuries, no citations, and no word yet on whether it plans to escape again," the department said.
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