A feathered fugitive's run through a Leander neighborhood came to a heartwarming end thanks to the efforts of local authorities and the Leander community. Earlier this week, a wandering emu named Doug caused quite a stir when it was discovered touring the Palmera Ridge neighborhood unaccompanied.

Authorities quickly slated the bird for capture, assigning the temporary moniker of 'Sparkles' while the rightful owner's identity remained a mystery. As word of the odd runner spread, Leander Animal Services appealed to the public for assistance, asking residents via a Fox 7 Austin report to check their emus and dial 512-528-2800 with any information regarding the flightless escape artist.

This tale took a turn for the better when the Leander Police Department ushered 'Doug' back into the fold, late Monday morning. The police shared the joyous news on Facebook, as the heartwarming narrative reached its conclusion following a memorable journey, "It was an emu-tional reunion Monday as the Leander Police Department helped guide a loose emu back home," shared the department.

Not only was Doug safely escorted back by the diligent officers, but, the reunion was made even sweeter as it was reported by KXAN that his sibling emu, Limu, had been eagerly awaiting his return. "Doug’s sibling, Limu, was reportedly excited to have Doug back home," KXAN noted, encapsulating the joy that surely enveloped the owner's household upon Doug's return.