Residents of the small town of Middleborough, Massachusetts got a bit of a surprise when an emu was spotted running amok through their streets earlier this week. Witnesses reported that the flightless bird was sprinting through yards and gardens without a care in the world, ignoring the pleas of concerned citizens who were worried about its safety.
Local animal control officials were quick to respond to the scene, though it quickly became apparent that they were not up to the task of corralling the errant emu. Despite their best efforts, the bird continued to evade capture, using its powerful legs to outrun and outmaneuver anyone who dared to get close.
For many residents of the town, the appearance of the emu was a welcome distraction from the monotony of daily life. “It’s not every day you get to see something like this in your own backyard,” commented one local resident, who asked to remain anonymous. “I mean, sure, it might be a little dangerous and all, but you’ve gotta admit it’s pretty cool.”
As the emu continued to dart around the streets, rumors began to circulate about where it had come from and how it had escaped. Some speculated that it was a pet that had gotten loose, while others suggested that it had been brought to town by a traveling circus.
Eventually, however, the truth came out: the emu had simply wandered into town on its own. According to local wildlife experts, this was not entirely surprising, as emus are known to be curious creatures that will often investigate new environments.
Despite the best efforts of animal control officials, the emu remained at large well into the evening. As night fell and the temperature dropped, some residents grew concerned for its well-being, worried that it would freeze to death in the cold New England air.
In the end, however, the emu was found safe and sound the next morning, having taken refuge in a nearby barn. Animal control officials were able to secure it and transport it to a nearby wildlife sanctuary, where it would receive the care and attention it needed.
For the residents of Middleborough, the brief appearance of the emu was a welcome distraction from the drudgery of daily life. And while it may be a while before another exotic animal wanders into town, for now, they will have their memories of a giant bird running loose to keep them entertained.
