A giraffe that disappeared from a Texas ranch has been found safe after spending nearly two weeks roaming nearby ranchland.
According to PEOPLE, Gracie the giraffe was located about four miles from Cedar Hollow Ranch on a neighboring property. The Real County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday that Gracie was found around 6:45 a.m.
Real County Sheriff Nathan T. Johnson said officials planned to safely sedate the giraffe before transporting her back to the ranch. “We found her. She’s fat and happy,” Johnson said.
Veterinarians Assisting With Return
Authorities said they were waiting for Gracie’s veterinarian to assist with capturing and relocating the animal. Officials believe the process will help ensure the giraffe is returned safely without causing unnecessary stress or injury.
The sheriff’s office did not report any injuries to Gracie during her time away from the ranch.
Escape Believed to Have Been Accidental
According to ranch officials, Gracie was last seen on June 12 after she apparently slipped through an enclosure gate.
She was later spotted on camera moving through dense brush near the town of Leakey, located about 90 miles northwest of San Antonio.
The ranch believes she wandered onto neighboring private property after leaving the enclosure.
Gracie had only arrived at Cedar Hollow Ranch in May and is believed to be between 3½ and 4 years old. After nearly two weeks on the loose, officials say the young giraffe will soon be heading home.