One of Two Sheep Wandering Near Windsor Expressway Since June Has Been Rescued

Successful Rescue of One Sheep

In a significant update for local animal welfare, one of the two sheep that had been roaming near the E.C. Row Expressway since mid-June has been successfully captured.

This breakthrough was reported by Lauren Edwards, the founder of Charlotte’s Freedom Farm, in an update to CBC Windsor.

The rescued sheep, which had been elusive for weeks, was safely captured and transported to the sanctuary on Wednesday morning.

Edwards expressed both relief and concern for the animal, noting, “This sheep had been on the run for over a month.

It’s been a challenging time for him, and he’s now adjusting to a safer environment at our barn.”

Details of the Rescue Operation

The capture occurred around 10 a.m. ET when volunteers found the sheep in a specially designed pen.

This pen was strategically placed in a wooded area north of the E.C. Row Expressway, near the eastbound Dougall Avenue ramps.

To attract the sheep, the pen was stocked with grain, fresh water, and salt licks, ensuring a comfortable and appealing environment for the animal.

Edwards detailed the planning involved, stating, “The pen trap was meticulously prepared to make the sheep feel secure and encouraged to enter.

We wanted to ensure it was as inviting as possible.”

Second Sheep Still at Large

While the capture of one sheep marks a significant milestone, efforts are ongoing to locate the second sheep.

Edwards noted that this second sheep was spotted on Wednesday as well, having found its way through the highway’s fence into a bushy area that offers some protection.

Volunteers remain dedicated to finding and rescuing this remaining sheep.

Initially, both sheep were estimated to be around six months old and weighed between 40 to 50 pounds.

However, the rescued sheep turned out to be smaller than expected. Edwards revised the estimate, saying, “The sheep we captured is much smaller than initially thought.

It appears to be a young one, around six months old.”

Challenges and Emotional Impact

The rescue mission has encountered several challenges

. The sheep faced the dangers of heavy traffic and the stress of being separated from other herd members.

Edwards described the current situation of the captured sheep as one of considerable stress.

“The sheep has been under a lot of pressure, living in fear without other herd members around,” she said.

“It’s been a tough experience for him.”

Footage shared on social media on June 17 showed one of the sheep navigating the expressway amid fast-moving traffic, highlighting the urgency and difficulty of the rescue effort.

Most sightings of the sheep had occurred on the shoulder of the expressway, where vehicles passed by at high speeds.

Future Care for the Rescued Sheep

With the sheep now in the care of Charlotte’s Freedom Farm, several steps will be taken to ensure its health and well-being.

The animal will undergo quarantine, blood tests, a veterinary examination, and receive necessary vaccinations.

Edwards expressed optimism about the sheep’s future, saying, “We are looking forward to the day when the sheep can join our other animals and settle into a peaceful environment.

It’s important that he feels secure and understands that he is now safe.”

Public Engagement and Naming

The sanctuary is also considering involving the public in naming the rescued sheep.

Edwards mentioned, “We have not yet decided on a name for the sheep.

We plan to use social media to let people suggest and vote on a name.”

There have been suggestions for speed-related names, reflecting the sheep’s adventurous journey.

Ideas such as “Speedy” or “Bolt” have been proposed, acknowledging the sheep’s remarkable ability to evade capture.

Ongoing Efforts and Community Support

The successful capture of one sheep is a significant achievement in the rescue effort, but the mission is not complete until the second sheep is safely located and brought to the sanctuary.

The commitment of volunteers, the careful execution of the rescue plan, and the support from the community have been crucial in this endeavor.

The story of these wandering sheep has captured public interest, highlighting the resilience of these animals and the dedication of those working to ensure their safety.

As efforts to find the second sheep continue, the focus remains on achieving a positive outcome and ensuring both sheep find a secure and nurturing home.

The community’s involvement in naming the rescued sheep further underscores the public’s engagement in animal welfare and the collective effort to address the challenges faced by these animals.