In a recent incident in North Attleboro, Massachusetts, a bull that had escaped from a rodeo event was finally captured after a two-day pursuit. The animal was one of eight that had broken free from their enclosures at a rodeo held in the Emerald Square Mall parking lot.
The escape occurred on a Sunday, when the bulls managed to break through their pens, causing chaos in the crowded parking area. The animals knocked down fencing, bumped into a tent, and headed towards the nearby highway before retreating into the woods. By Sunday afternoon, seven of the eight bulls had been successfully corralled, leading to the cancellation of the Festival Rodeo event.
The search for the final bull continued into Monday, with authorities employing innovative methods to locate the animal. A missing pet-tracking business, Wandering Paws K9, was called in to assist. They utilized a drone to search for the bull, demonstrating the increasing use of technology in animal tracking and wildlife management.
"I have to say I've never went out looking for a lost bull. This is one for the books."
The pursuit involved multiple agencies, including local police and fire departments, as well as the Massachusetts State Police Air Wing. Police cruisers followed the bull as it trotted near businesses and through wooded areas.
The chase culminated on Monday night when the bull was finally lassoed and led into a trailer on U.S. Highway 1, not far from where the initial escape had occurred. This technique of lassoing, which involves using a rope with a running noose, has been a traditional method of catching cattle since the early days of rodeos.
Rodeos, which originated from cattle-handling practices in Spain and Mexico, have a long history in the United States. The first formal rodeo competition was held in Cheyenne, Wyoming, in 1872. Today, these events typically feature activities such as bull riding, calf roping, and barrel racing.
While animal escapes from rodeos are relatively rare, they do occur occasionally. Bulls, which can weigh up to 2,200 pounds and run at speeds of up to 35 mph, pose significant challenges when they break free. This incident highlights the potential risks associated with holding such events in public spaces like mall parking lots.
The use of the Emerald Square Mall parking lot for the rodeo is not uncommon, as these large areas are often utilized for temporary events. The mall itself, which opened in 1989, is a landmark in North Attleboro, a town in Bristol County, Massachusetts.
This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding rodeos, with animal welfare groups often criticizing these events for their treatment of animals. As communities continue to host such attractions, balancing entertainment with safety and animal welfare remains a crucial consideration.