After a nearly six-day escapade, Shug the zebra, who escaped from her owner in Washington state, has finally been rescued. The regional animal services of King County (RASKC) announced on Friday that Shug was captured near North Bend after wandering in the foothills of the Cascades since her escape on April 28.

The Adventures of Shug

Shug’s adventure began when her owner stopped off Interstate 90 in the North Bend area to address an issue with a trailer carrying the zebra and three companions. While the owner worked to secure the trailer, all four zebras managed to break free. While three zebras were quickly recovered, Shug remained at large, prompting a community-wide search effort.

Community Efforts and Sightings

Residents rallied together to aid in Shug’s capture, with signs declaring support for “Team Zebra” and urging anyone who spotted her to contact authorities. Despite occasional sightings by residents, Shug remained elusive, roaming the area near North Bend. Patrick Murphy, a North Bend resident who spotted Shug during a run in the woods, likened her to a local legend, saying, “It’s kind of like the local Bigfoot now. I hope they catch her but you know, the zebra might live in the hills forever, in our hearts.” Residents’ vigilance and cooperation with animal control officers were instrumental in keeping track of Shug’s movements, providing valuable information to aid in her rescue.

Successful Rescue and Gratitude

After days of anticipation, Shug was successfully rescued on Friday evening by private civilians and animal control officers. Despite her time on the run, Shug appeared to be in good condition. RASKC expressed gratitude to its partners, including the King County Sheriff’s Office, King County Parks, the Washington State Patrol, the City of North Bend, and the numerous residents who assisted in the rescue efforts.

The successful outcome of Shug’s rescue demonstrates the power of community collaboration and the dedication of local authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of both residents and animals alike. RASKC anticipates releasing additional details about Shug’s rescue, bringing closure to her remarkable journey and highlighting the collective effort that led to her safe return.