In Durango, Colorado, a neighborhood got a surprise visit from a not-so-average animal—Irwin, a pet kangaroo. This wasn’t his first stroll through town. The kangaroo escaped his owner’s yard not once, but twice, leading to two separate calls to the local police. While kangaroos are native to Australia, they’re legally owned in Colorado with proper permits.
Officer Shane Garrison, one of the responding officers, managed to track Irwin down and safely capture him after neighbors reported seeing something bouncing around in their yards. “I’ve dealt with dogs and even the occasional goat,” Garrison said, “but a kangaroo? That’s a first.”
Exotic Pets Come With Real Responsibility
Irwin’s owner, who hasn’t been named, said the young kangaroo is naturally curious and always looking for ways to explore. That curiosity might seem cute, but officials are raising some serious concerns.
Police Commander Nick Stasi explained that while Irwin is still young, he’s going to grow—fast. Adult kangaroos can weigh more than 90 kilograms (200 pounds), and they’re strong enough to injure a person with a single kick. “Right now, it’s a funny story. But next time, it might not be,” Stasi said.
Escaped Kangaroos Are Rare, but Not Unheard Of
While most people wouldn’t expect to see a kangaroo loose in Colorado, this isn’t the first time exotic pets have made headlines. In recent years, residents have reported escaped emus, llamas, and even zebras in various parts of the U.S.
Still, Irwin’s case is unique. His story spread quickly on social media, and some neighbors even tried to follow him for selfies. Others, however, weren’t laughing. “It’s cool, but it’s also dangerous,” one local mom said. “That thing could’ve jumped in front of my kid’s bike.”
Officials Urge Secure Fencing and Better Planning
Authorities are reminding exotic pet owners that it’s their job to make sure these animals stay secure—for everyone’s safety. Loose pets can be injured, hit by vehicles, or cause harm without intending to. In Irwin’s case, police said there were no injuries, but next time, that might not be true.
Police say they’re working with the owner to help reinforce fencing and ensure Irwin doesn’t make it a third time. For now, Irwin’s back home. But the town of Durango won’t forget the kangaroo that just kept bouncing back.
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