A week-long chase for wallaby Sammy came to an end on Wednesday night as the escaped animal was caught and – perhaps only momentarily – returned to its owner.

Sammy's hopping escape kept Luxembourg on its toes for more than a week, with significant search efforts underway in the eastern parts of the Grand Duchy. In a Facebook post shared shortly before 10pm, the wallaby's owner confirmed on Wednesday evening that the animal was successfully captured and is doing well.

While Sammy was still on the loose, the Luxembourg Motoring Association (ACL) issued a warning to motorists to drive carefully in the region while the runaway animal also became a topic of discussion in the Chamber of Deputies where Agriculture Minister Martine Hansen advised people not to search for the animal on their own, urging them to leave the task to the police.

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While Sammy has now been safely returned to its owner, it remains unclear whether he can stay there as the woman failed to request proper authorisation to keep a pet wallaby before her recent move to the Grand Duchy. His owner must submit a request to the Ministry of Agriculture and await their decision.

In the meantime, Sammy's home has been inspected by veterinarians and at first glance, everything appeared to be in order, according to Felix Wildschutz, director of the Veterinary and Food Administration.The wallabies are kept in a large field and have plenty of access to food in shelter. Wildschutz said his first impressions were positive and that it was likely Sammy's owner would obtain the necessary authorisation.

Should the Ministry decline the request, however, Sammy would be removed and sent to an animal park or zoo. The only park in Luxembourg capable of accommodating the wallaby is the Bettembourg "Parc Merveilleux", which has already declared itself ready to assist if required.