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Rogue emu evades Del. authorities for 60 days

The runaway emu has prompted lockdowns at schools

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An Emu stands on a farm field in Odessa, Del., on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2015.

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Associated Press

ODESSA, Del. — An emu on the run for more than 60 days has prompted lockdowns at two elementary schools in Delaware.

The runaway emu was spotted Monday near Spring Meadow Elementary School and Old State Elementary School, leading to a “soft lockdown” at both schools. Officials sent a letter alerting parents and saying students remained inside while normal activity continued.

Delaware Department of Agriculture spokesman Daniel Shortridge says no one is sure who owns the bird. Over the last week, authorities have received a growing number of calls from people who have spotted the bird or come close to hitting it.

The agency has asked police to shoot the emu if public safety is at risk. Shortridge says killing the bird isn’t the preferred solution.

Copyright 2015 The Associated Press