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A Washington homeowner who heard mysterious banging inside their house called 911 to report a possible burglary, only for responding officers to discover the “cat burglar” was quite literal — a bobcat perched at the top of the stairs.
The unusual encounter unfolded last week in Kirkland’s Moss Bay neighborhood, where police were ultimately able to corral the wild animal before wildlife officials later returned it to its natural habitat.
No injuries were reported to the homeowner, responding officers or the bobcat, according to the Kirkland Police Department.
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Police said they responded to a report of a possible burglary after the resident reported hearing banging inside the home. When officers arrived, they discovered the bobcat inside.
Authorities deployed a drone to monitor the bobcat’s movements inside the home, allowing officers to maintain a safe distance and coordinate their response.
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Video released by Kirkland police shows the bobcat growling while perched at the top of the staircase.
The unexpected house guest was safely corralled into an isolated room until the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife arrived.
After being sedated, the bobcat was later released near Forbes Creek, close to the natural habitat where it was found, police said.
Police believe the bobcat climbed a tree and jumped through an open window, possibly after being drawn inside by the homeowner’s cat.
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The resident’s cat was later found unharmed.
Officials warned residents never to approach or feed a bobcat and to give the animal plenty of space if encountered.
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The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife also recommends that residents keep pets indoors, especially between dusk and dawn, and secure small livestock and poultry.