Mary the antelope found after escaping from Lupa Zoo more than a month ago

LUDLOW, Mass — Mary the antelope has been found after she escaped from the Lupa Zoo more than a month ago.

Mary ran away from the Lupa Zoo after a storm in early April after a tree fell and broke the paddock she was staying in, zoo officials say.

According to the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department around 11:45 p.m. Saturday, Mary was taken into custody after a determined member of the Lupa Zoo staff had been tracking her since the great escape.

“Last night I had an eye on her near the solar panels by the Mass Pike and Chapin and Miller Streets, and was able to bring her in with a live camera, a 100-foot rope, and a trailer,” said Wally Lupa, director of facility development and animal care for the Lupa Zoo. “She walked right into the trailer and to say I was relieved would be an understatement.”

According to zoo officials, Mary was captured without a scratch. Mary, who was born with one horn as a defect.

Over the past few weeks, the search for Mary has been assisted by the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office’s special teams, the Ludlow Police, Wilbraham Police, Palmer Police, the USDA, the Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, The Mass. Environmental Police, and Dr. Peter Brewer of the Southwick Zoo.

“I’m incredibly pleased this story has a happy ending, and that is due to the entire Lupa Zoo staff working tirelessly to bring her home safely,” said Sheriff Nick Cocchi.

When Mary was spotted Saturday night prior to her being captured, she was with several deer who she apparently made friends with along the way, according to Lupa.

“It was like something out of a movie,” Lupa said. “But I’m glad it’s over and maybe tonight I can finally sleep well and in my own bed.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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