SHAWANO, WI (WTAQ) – Residents in Shawano County are hopping on a search for a baby kangaroo that is on the run in Shawano County.
“Just keeping our eyes open hoping that somebody will spot it.”
Owner John Mondus said their baby kangaroo Lulu hopped the fence of their Bonduel property Sunday night. After posting the lost kangaroo on Facebook, many have offered support by starting a search party.
“We had people out looking with searchlights on their vehicles and flashlights. Even the Sheriffs Department has been out a couple of times.”
Mondus says tracking down a kangaroo may sound easy, but it comes with some challenges.
“It is very fast and right now it is still young,” Mondus says it has been out of the pouch for six to eight months.
The ways kangaroos move also make it difficult to spot.
“It is only about two and a half feet tall and they do not stand up but are hunched over.”
With temperatures dropping, Mondus says they have limited time to find Lulu as Kangaroos are not conditioned for colder weather.
“The biggest thing we worry about is frostbite on the ears.”
Those searching for Lulu have asked what to do if they come across it. Mondus says they can contact them directly or call the Shawano County Sheriff’s Office, but if possible, try to call its name and catch it.
“They can call it by its name, Lulu. It does not bite. They can approach it but it might be a little scared so that may not be as easy as it was before,” he said. “When they do grab it, grab it by its tail. It is the easiest place to grab it from, then hold it by its tail and hold it like a baby.”
He says the community support in finding Lulu is overwhelming.
John and his wife Rita own a small petting zoo that is located on the property of a restaurant that they own in Shawano.