Police in Waco, Texas, were called to an unusual scene on Tuesday when a kangaroo named Bingus escaped from a local wildlife rescue and roamed the streets. The Waco Police Department shared footage of the incident on Instagram, captioning it with a pun: “HOP PURSUIT - Well … the first time this happened we said it wasn’t our typical patrol day, but now it’s just become ‘roo-tine’.”
In the video, set to The Sugarhill Gang’s “Rapper’s Delight,” officers can be seen attempting to corral the marsupial. The department assured the public that no officers or wildlife were injured during the pursuit. “We’re happy to report this escape artist has returned home safe and sound,” the post added.
Bingus had escaped from the Waco Wildlife Rescue, a non-profit animal sanctuary that rehabilitates exotic animals. This is not the first time Waco police have dealt with a kangaroo on the loose; the department noted that such encounters have become routine.
Social media users reacted with amusement, with one commenter asking, “Are we sure this isn’t a missing episode from Reno 911?” The police department replied, “A little walkabout if you will.”
Texas is one of 13 US states that allows residents to own kangaroos as exotic pets without a permit. Similar incidents have occurred in Texas in recent years, where kangaroos have escaped from private owners and explored neighborhoods.
