Full Breakdown
Rex the Wallaby's Great Escape and Rescue in New Jersey
1/2/2026, 11:35:21 AM
Escape from Lots of Love Farm
Rex, a 3-year-old wallaby, escaped from Lots of Love Farm, an animal sanctuary in Williamstown, New Jersey, on the evening of December 29, 2025. The wallaby's escape occurred when a latch on his enclosure was accidentally left unlatched while he was being moved to a barn for protection against cold weather. Owner Ron Layden reported that Rex was last seen around 4 or 5 p.m. on Monday, shortly before he went missing.
Community Search Efforts
The search for Rex began shortly after he was reported missing. Monroe Township Police received multiple calls about a "kangaroo" spotted in the area, including a near-miss incident where Rex almost got hit by a car. As the search intensified, community members, including local teenagers, joined in to help locate the marsupial. A drone pet locating company was also enlisted to assist in the search efforts, although poor weather conditions initially hindered their operations.
Rex's Walmart Adventure
Rex was spotted hopping around the parking lot of a Walmart about a mile from the sanctuary on December 30. Witnesses, including Klarissa Harper, described their surprise at seeing a wallaby in such an unexpected location. "I couldn't contain my excitement," Harper recounted, having seen Rex while running errands.
The wallaby was eventually captured around 9 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, near a retention pond adjacent to the Walmart. A group of teenagers, who referred to themselves as the "Wallaby Wranglers," played a crucial role in Rex's recovery. They managed to corner him and, following Layden's advice, caught him by the tail, ensuring his safe return.
Official Statements and Community Reactions
Following Rex's capture, Lots of Love Farm expressed gratitude to the community for their support. In a celebratory Facebook post, they stated, "If this just didn't become the best night ever! With the help of some really cool kids and a really cool dad, we caught Rex at the Walmart!! He is home safe and sound! Thank you, everyone, you're all amazing. He must really like Walmart!"
Ron Layden noted that Rex appeared to be in good condition after his adventure, stating, "He was in great condition, like it was nothing. He was just out for a stroll." The community's involvement in the search highlighted a strong sense of concern for local wildlife and the bond between residents and the sanctuary.
Criticism and Concerns
While the outcome was positive, some concerns were raised regarding the safety of animals in enclosures. Monroe Police Captain Kevin Bielski emphasized the importance of securing animal enclosures to prevent similar incidents in the future, advising that anyone who encounters a loose animal should contact local authorities.
Conclusion
Rex's escape and subsequent rescue not only brought joy to the community but also served as a reminder of the responsibilities involved in caring for exotic animals. The collaborative efforts of local residents, police, and the sanctuary culminated in a successful outcome, with Rex safely returned to Lots of Love Farm, where he will continue to be cared for.
