Wallaby stands triumphantly holding a miniature flag with a blurred Walmart storefront and warm golden light in background

Wallaby Escapes Farm, Saved by Teens in South Jersey

At a Glance

  • 3-year-old wallaby escaped from Lots of Love Farm on Dec. 29
  • Found the next day at a Walmart on the Black Horse Pike
  • Teens and community helped capture and return it home

Why it matters: Community teamwork saved an escaped animal and kept a local pet safe.

When a wallaby slipped out of its enclosure at Lots of Love Farm in Monroe Township, Gloucester County, the animal’s owner was left scrambling. The marsupial was found the next day in a Walmart parking lot, thanks to the help of local teenagers. The quick response kept the animal safe and highlighted the power of community action.

Escape and Search

The wallaby slipped out of its enclosure on Monday night, Dec. 29, and was missing until the following day. Owner Sue Layden immediately reported the loss to farm staff. The search began across the surrounding area.

Community Rescue

Teenagers scan Walmart parking lot with binoculars and phones pointing to a tree where Rex the wallaby is spotted.

Local teenagers joined the search, navigating the Walmart parking lot and surrounding streets. Their persistence helped locate the marsupial. They worked with farm staff to safely capture the animal.

Sue Layden said:

> “He was found by some really cool people.”

Sue Layden added:

> “It’s actually a miracle, they’re not easy to catch.”

  • Escaped Dec. 29
  • Found Dec. 30 at Walmart
  • Captured by teens
  • Returned to owner

Safe Return

Sue Layden said:

> “He is home safe, sound, comfy, fed and warm.”

It is now safe and warm at home.

Key Takeaways

  • The wallaby escaped on Dec. 29 and was rescued the next day.
  • Local teens and community members played a key role in the capture.
  • The animal is now home safe, sound, and comfortable.

The community’s quick action ensured the wallaby’s safe return, showcasing the impact of local cooperation.

Author

  • I’m Daniel J. Whitman, a weather and environmental journalist based in Philadelphia. I

    Daniel J. Whitman is a city government reporter for News of Philadelphia, covering budgets, council legislation, and the everyday impacts of policy decisions. A Temple journalism grad, he’s known for data-driven investigations that turn spreadsheets into accountability reporting.

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