In classic Western films, American cowboys on horseback can easily capture thieves using lassos. However, in real life, a bull from Illinois recently escaped from a farm, prompting a group of ranch workers on horseback to chase it down, ultimately subduing the animal using the classic method of throwing a lasso.
According to a report from WLS TV station, the incident occurred on September 5th in McHenry County, northeastern Illinois. A black bull weighing 1,200 pounds (544 kilograms) escaped from the farm enclosure and was running loose.
The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office posted on Facebook after 4:30 pm that there was an escaped bull in a grassy area between South Union Road and South Grant Highway in Marengo.
Several farmers, including Ken Bauman and Beth Baumer, arrived and spent most of the afternoon monitoring the bull to prevent it from reaching nearby roads.
Bauman said they were particularly concerned about the bull crossing the road and potentially encountering a school bus.
Before long, a group of ranch workers on horseback arrived to capture the bull. Armed with lassos, they attempted to subdue the bull, but it kept evading them, playfully dodging their attempts.
Bauman mentioned, “You have to watch their temperament, hoping you can get them to stop, calm them down, and keep them in a safe place until they relax. I’m sure it was thirsty.”
Finally, the bull was surrounded by about six ranch workers on horseback. They lassoed the bull, calmed it down, and led it back to the farm enclosure.
The Bauman couple mentioned that the bull’s owner informed them that it had just arrived at the farm earlier this week, likely the reason for its escape.
Authorities stated that the bull was in good condition upon returning home, possibly a bit fatigued and thirsty from its escapade. Nearby farmers remarked that it was a genuine community effort that led to the successful capture.
No injuries were reported to the bull or any individuals involved in the bull’s escape incident.
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