Overview
- Authorities confirmed late Tuesday that the marsupial spotted in Boucherville has been tranquilized, captured and placed in the care of licensed professionals for health assessment.
- The recovery was carried out by teams that included zoological veterinarians, animal health technicians and wildlife protection officers because kangaroos are especially sensitive to anesthesia.
- Initial inquiries indicate the animal likely escaped from a stable and was being kept in facilities that did not meet Quebec’s permitting and welfare rules, and a provincial investigation is ongoing.
- The Environment Ministry repeatedly told residents to avoid approaching or attempting to capture the animal, while the Galahad SPCA criticized what it called a slow response and said it had offered help that was not authorized.
- Advocates and officials point to numerous online listings for exotic species in Quebec, raising concerns that the case could prompt tighter enforcement of permit, transport and housing rules for wild or exotic animals.