SAINT CLOUD, FL – A kangaroo was recently caught on camera hopping along a busy street in Saint Cloud, leaving local residents both surprised and curious about its origins. The marsupial was spotted on Hickory Tree Road, an area bustling with activity, near Harmony and Fox. While the sight of a kangaroo in Florida might seem improbable, it has certainly piqued the interest of the community and local authorities.
The unusual encounter was captured by Kayla Mullins, who witnessed the kangaroo leisurely making its way down the road on Monday. “It must have stayed there for a solid minute or two, just hopping in front of me,” Mullins recounted. The kangaroo eventually veered off and disappeared under a fence into a nearby farmland.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has been informed of the kangaroo’s presence. According to an officer, such incidents are rare but not unheard of. The FWC is currently investigating the situation, attempting to trace the kangaroo’s origins and ensure its safe capture and return.
Residents Brenda and Lenny Stack, who live nearby, expressed concern for the kangaroo’s safety given the heavy traffic on Hickory Tree Road. “It’s so sad,” said Brenda Stack. “We hope it’s caught as soon as possible.” The couple, along with their dog Bella, plans to stay vigilant in case the kangaroo returns.
In a similar incident last year in Volusia County, another kangaroo was on the loose for several weeks before authorities managed to capture it and return it to its owner. It is a reminder of the importance of proper containment for exotic pets.
The FWC classifies kangaroos as Class III wildlife, which means individuals must have a permit to keep them as pets. The commission maintains a database of all permitted captive wildlife, which may aid in identifying the owner of the wandering kangaroo.
With local businesses confirming that their kangaroos are accounted for, the mystery deepens as to where this particular kangaroo originated. The investigation continues, as residents and officials alike remain on high alert for any further sightings.