Search for missing kangaroo in central Wisconsin captures online attention

The search for a pet kangaroo that escaped from its home outside of Necedah has captured media attention across the country.

Chesney is a 16-month-old kangaroo owned by Debbie Marlund, who operates Sunshine Farm Petting Zoo. He and his brother Kenny live in Marlund’s home, along with her five labradors, and often visit the residents of nursing homes and senior centers in the region.

“Chesney actually sleeps in bed with me every night,” Marlund said. “They’re both home bodies. They do get plenty of outside time when it’s nice. They don’t particularly care for cold weather.”

The kangaroo was in his outdoor enclosure Wednesday morning when he was spooked by an unfamiliar dog and escaped. He’s been spotted multiple times in the area around his home but has so far evaded several attempts to catch him.

News of the search has been picked up by several TV news stations, including as far away as Seattle, and even made a British-based publication. 

Marlund said she has not stopped searching for Chesney since Wednesday morning.

“I have been asking neighbors to let me go on their property and walk trails, walk paths, and get close to the vicinity,” said Marlund, adding that friends have been driving local roads to make sure he isn’t spotted leaving the area.

Colton Johnson of Midwest Aerial Drone Services has also aided in the search using a drone and thermal camera. 

He often uses the equipment to search for lost pets but said tracking a kangaroo is more difficult because of its speed.

“It’s hard to keep up with him,” Johnson said. “He slipped us last night, but we’re going to head back out there tonight and see if we can get eyes on him.”

Johnson said there have been plenty of people in the area showing up to try to get a look at Chesney. But he urged residents to avoid going after the kangaroo because it could drive the scared animal further into the wooded area.

Marlund asked locals to keep an eye out for Chesney and report any sightings. 

“He’s not going to come to a stranger, he’s too spooked,” she said. “But I think it is beneficial for people who are staying in the area or driving by to keep their eye out.”