A red kangaroo identified as Joey has been roaming free on the South Shore of Montreal since Friday, June 12, 2026. The animal, which is typically native to the Australian outback, was reported missing from a private enclosure and has since been sighted moving through residential areas of the region.
Authorities and local residents have been alerted to the presence of the large marsupial, which can reach heights of over one and a half metres when standing upright. While the kangaroo is accustomed to captivity, its sudden appearance in an urban setting has prompted concern for both public safety and the animal's wellbeing.
Red kangaroos are not part of Canada's natural fauna and are rarely seen outside of zoos, wildlife parks, or private collections. Their presence in the wild is therefore highly unusual, and local wildlife officials have emphasized the need for a coordinated response to locate and safely capture the animal. The South Shore community has been advised to keep a safe distance and report any sightings to the appropriate authorities.
The incident underscores the challenges of managing exotic species that are kept in private facilities. While no injuries have been reported, the kangaroo's size and strength mean that interactions with the public could pose risks. Officials are reportedly reviewing protocols for containment and transport to ensure a swift resolution.
As of the latest updates, search efforts continue throughout the area, with officers employing both visual monitoring and community tips to track Joey's movements. The hope is to return the kangaroo to its enclosure without further incident, restoring normalcy to the neighborhoods affected by the unexpected visitor.