Police in Rockland County, New York, responded to an unusual call on Saturday, September 12, to assist in the capture of an emu that had escaped from a local petting zoo. The bird made its escape from the Ramapo petting zoo at approximately 8:45 a.m.
The Ramapo Police Department was alerted and initiated a pursuit, utilizing a Skydio drone to track the emu's movements from the air while officers coordinated on the ground. The emu was observed roaming roadside and appeared to be enjoying the sunshine during its unauthorized excursion.
A video shared by the Town of Ramapo Police Department captured the moments officers surrounded the emu before attempting to secure it with a rope harness. The bird initially evaded capture, demonstrating agility as it continued its journey through the town. Officers persisted in their pursuit, requiring a third attempt before the emu was safely detained.
The emu was then escorted back to the petting zoo without any reported injuries or incidents. Following the successful recovery, the police department posted on social media, humorously noting the emu's road crossing. "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 wrote.
They further elaborated on the use of technology, stating, "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 confirmed that the emu was safely returned to its enclosure, concluding the incident with no injuries, citations, or immediate indication of future escape attempts.