The Washington State Patrol Trooper Rick Johnson reported an unusual wildlife sighting in North Bend, Washington, where four zebras escaped from their trailer while being transported from Washington to Montana. Three of the zebras were quickly captured, but the fate of the fourth zebra remains unknown. The driver had taken the Interstate 90 exit in North Bend to secure the trailer when the zebras bolted, leaving onlookers in disbelief as they grazed on grass off the side of the offramp. Witnesses, including Dan Barnett, helped protect the zebras from the nearby busy interstate by creating a makeshift fence to block the animals from entering the highway.
As the zebras continued trotting towards town, they passed by brunch patrons at a restaurant near the interstate exit. Eventually, three of the zebras found their way into Whitney Blomquist’s backyard. Blomquist recounted her surprise when she realized the missing zebras were in her yard and sought advice on what to do next. The zebras then ran to a neighboring yard, where two of them were captured with the assistance of rodeo professionals. The third zebra, believed to be the baby of the herd, was corralled later. Trooper Johnson shared photos of the loose zebras on social media platform X, expressing astonishment at the unusual incident and noting that it was a first for him and the other troopers involved.
The escapade of the zebras captured the attention of residents and onlookers, as they marveled at the sight of the unexpected visitors in their neighborhood. The incident also highlighted the community’s quick response in ensuring the safety of the zebras and preventing any potential harm to both the animals and passing motorists on the nearby highway. The zebras’ unexpected journey through town was met with a mix of amusement and concern, with many residents expressing their disbelief at the sight of the animals in unusual surroundings. The successful capture of the zebras with the help of professionals showcased the teamwork and coordination of local authorities and residents in handling the situation effectively.
The presence of zebras roaming freely in a Washington neighborhood sparked discussions about wildlife transportation protocols and safety measures for transporting animals like zebras over long distances. The incident served as a reminder of the unpredictability of wildlife behavior and the importance of proper containment and securing of animals during transportation. Authorities emphasized the need for vigilance when transporting exotic animals to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The zebras’ escapade not only provided a unique and memorable experience for the residents of North Bend but also prompted reflection on the responsibilities involved in caring for and transporting wildlife in a safe and secure manner.
