A Washington homeowner who heard unexplained banging inside their residence contacted 911, suspecting a burglary, but responding officers discovered the source of the noise was a bobcat perched at the top of the stairs.
The incident occurred last week in Kirkland's Moss Bay neighborhood. Kirkland police safely corralled the bobcat, and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife officials later released it back into its natural habitat. No injuries were reported to the homeowner, officers, or the animal.
Police responded to the call and found the bobcat inside the home. To monitor the animal's movements while maintaining a safe distance, officers deployed a drone. Video released by the Kirkland Police Department shows the bobcat growling from its position atop the staircase.
Authorities contained the bobcat in an isolated room until wildlife officials arrived. After being sedated, the animal was released near Forbes Creek.
Officials believe the bobcat may have climbed a tree and entered the home through an open window. It is possible the bobcat was attracted by the resident's pet cat, which was later found unharmed.
Wildlife officials advise residents to avoid approaching or feeding bobcats and to maintain distance if an encounter occurs. They also recommend keeping pets indoors, particularly from dusk to dawn, and securing small livestock and poultry.