An alpaca broke free in Mount Kisco and roamed the streets until police corralled the furry fugitive near a luxury car dealership. Photo: Westchester County Police.

ICYMI: Alpaca On the Loose—New York Town Stunned by Unlikely, Adorable Furry Fugitive!

An alpaca broke free in Mount Kisco and roamed the streets until police corralled the furry fugitive near a luxury car dealership. 🌐 #News #MountKiscoNY #NewYork #PetsAndAnimals

MOUNT KISCO, NY — A wandering alpaca caused quite the scene in a Westchester County town after slipping out of its trailer and taking an unexpected stroll along a busy New York roadway.

Officers Track Down the Four-Legged Runaway

Just after 10 a.m., a 911 call alerted local authorities to what was first described as a llama on the run near Kisco Avenue. But when Westchester County Police officers Mirko and Rodriguez arrived on the scene, they quickly realized the animal was actually an alpaca—albeit a convincing impostor at first glance.

The alpaca had apparently made its escape near Hotel MTK on Pat Reilly Way. From there, it trotted off toward Kisco Avenue, eventually making its way near a Land Rover dealership before officers intercepted it.

Safe Capture Brings Smiles, Not Charges

Authorities managed to safely wrangle the creature and transported it to the Green Street Precinct. There, it was reunited with its relieved owner—no injuries reported and no lasting damage done.

Police offered a light-hearted guess that the animal had been headed for a child’s birthday celebration, suggesting the show likely went on without missing a beat.

Did You Know?

  • Alpacas are social animals and often become distressed when separated from their herd, making escapes particularly stressful for them (National Alpaca Association).
  • There are over 250,000 alpacas in the United States, with many used for therapy, events, or as exotic pets (Alpaca Owners Association).
  • Unlike llamas, alpacas are typically smaller and have softer fleece, which is considered highly valuable in the textile industry (Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute).

Moment for Reflection

Even in the middle of a bustling town and a busy workday, one small creature reminded everyone to pause and smile. Sometimes, unexpected detours—whether ours or an alpaca’s—bring us together in moments of surprise and joy. In a world that often feels hurried and planned down to the minute, this furry escapee offered a gentle nudge to embrace life’s lighter side and be thankful for the people (and animals) who help us find our way home.