An emu named Rodney escaped from his owner's home in England, sparking an hours-long search involving his owner, police, animal rescuers and members of the public.

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Jon Cardy, 54, of Chedburgh, said he was away in Northamptonshire when he received word that his emu, Rodney, had jumped a fence and escaped while being watched by a pet sitter.

Cardy rushed back to town and an hours-long search was launched involving the Suffolk Constabulary and the RSPCA, as well as local residents who kept Cardy appraised of sightings on WhatsApp.

Cardy said a video posted to the app led him to rush to a location about a mile from his home, where he was able to lure Rodney into his car with some treats.

Sudbury & Haverhill Police posted a photo to Facebook showing an officer petting Rodney after the bird was safely returned home.

Cardy said Rodney has now been moved to the home of a neighbor with a taller fence. He said the neighbor already has an adult female emu, and the owners are now hoping the pair will hit it off and start an emu family.