Zebras ‘in custody’ after circus escape
Two zebras caused havoc after they escaped from a circus in the United States earlier this month (15 November).
The pair broke free from the UniverSoul Circus in Philadelphia at around 2pm.
The zebras ran through the streets from their base outside the Mann Center for the Performing Arts.
They were loose for an hour before they were captured.
Philadelphia Police posted on social media to inform the public that the zebras had been caught. No injuries were reported.
“Zebras in custody,” they tweeted. “They are already sporting old-timey prisoner getup ahead of trial and sentencing. Have faith, fellas.”
Members of the public also took to Twitter to express their shock at the loose animals.
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“Two zebras escaped a circus and now they are running around west Philadelphia,” said Amanda Leigh.
“Zebras escaped and are running around west Philadelphia,” said Riley. “This is the real life Madagascar.”
Sonia O’Sullivan added: “Thats got to be first time a zebra has run across a zebra crossing!”
Zorse for sale
Meanwhile back in the UK, another equine with stripes has recently been looking for a new home.
Last month (October 4) horseandhound.co.uk reported that eight-year-old Zulu the zorse was for sale.
Zulu (pictured right) was sired by a zebra and is out of an Arab. He was bred in the US and imported to the UK four years ago, before his previous owner became unable to cope.
The 13.2hh gelding, believed to be the only zorse in Britain, was rehomed by donkey sanctuary Severn Valley Rescue in Bridgnorth in Shropshire.
Sanctuary owner Amanda Ball was looking for a new owner for the gelding so he can continue with his specialist training.
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Rachael joined Horse & Hound in 2014, initially as a digital sub editor then became part of the news team as a writer in 2015. The philosophy graduate studied journalism at the Press Association before working as a local reporter at the Brentwood Gazette. Rachael is now a mum of two and still loves all things equestrian, including hacking, dressage and jumping with her cob Bert. Rachael left the H&H staff to go freelance in June 2019, but still contributes to our magazine and website, as well as our sister magazine Country Life, among others.