Kangaroo's Great Escape: Chesney Jumps Fence, Vanishes for 3 Days

Community rallies to search for the high-jumping kangaroo who escaped from a Wisconsin petting zoo.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:49pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph in soft, warm tones depicting the silhouette of a leaping kangaroo against a blurred, dreamlike background, conveying the sense of adventure and community spirit surrounding Chesney's great escape.The daring escape and triumphant return of Chesney the kangaroo captivated a Wisconsin community and showcased the deep bonds between humans and their animal companions.Necedah Today

Chesney, a kangaroo named after country music star Kenny Chesney, escaped from his enclosure at Sunshine Farm in Necedah, Wisconsin, after stray dogs spooked him. The 8-foot fence proved no match for the athletic kangaroo, who disappeared into the wilderness for three days before being safely recaptured by a local resident.

Why it matters

This story highlights the unexpected challenges and community spirit that can emerge when an exotic animal escapes its enclosure. It also underscores the deep bonds that can form between humans and their animal companions, even in unexpected circumstances.

The details

Chesney's escape occurred after stray dogs rushed his enclosure, causing the kangaroo to panic and leap over the 8-foot fence surrounding his petting zoo home. His keeper, Debbie Marland, immediately sounded the alarm, and a community-wide search effort began involving local residents, heat-seeking drones, and extensive trekking through the Wisconsin wilderness.

  • On April 9, 2026, Chesney escaped from his enclosure at Sunshine Farm.
  • For the next three days, the kangaroo evaded capture in the surrounding countryside.
  • On April 12, 2026, Stacy Brereton was able to safely return Chesney to the petting zoo.

The players

Chesney

A kangaroo named after country music star Kenny Chesney who escaped from his enclosure at Sunshine Farm in Necedah, Wisconsin.

Debbie Marland

The keeper responsible for Chesney's care at Sunshine Farm.

Stacy Brereton

A local resident who was able to safely recapture Chesney after his three-day escape.

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What they’re saying

“I've never seen a kangaroo jump that high. I was just amazed at how athletic he was.”

— Debbie Marland, Chesney's Keeper

“I just approached him slowly and calmly, and he came right to me. It was such a relief to get him back home safely.”

— Stacy Brereton

What’s next

Sunshine Farm plans to install a new, taller mesh top on Chesney's enclosure to prevent any future escapes. The community is also discussing the possibility of a children's book chronicling Chesney's adventure.

The takeaway

This heartwarming story of community cooperation and the bond between humans and animals serves as a reminder of the unexpected joys and challenges that can arise when caring for exotic pets. It highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of both Chesney the kangaroo and the people who worked tirelessly to bring him home safely.