Emus spotted walking down road in Hadleigh in Suffolk

Police say they are aware of multiple sightings following reports of two emus seen walking the streets of Hadleigh on Monday afternoon.

Witnesses say the flightless bird was first spotted on Toppesfield Close, not far from the town's football club, before entering the High Street.

Concerns were raised as the bird was seen walking along the road and reportedly caused a van to swerve.

The animal was first spotted on Toppesfield Close (Image: Contributed) READ MORE: Suffolk garden named among best in the UK

Officers say they are working to ensure the safety of the animals and that they are currently investigating how they can minimise risk to traffic.

A police spokesman added: “We are aware of the issue and are working, alongside other agencies and the council, with the owners of the birds, on ways to keep them secure.”

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A spokeswoman from Babergh District Council said: “This is no laughing matter for residents who have raised concerns over the welfare of the birds and for wider public safety.

“These birds are not covered by legislation that we regulate (for example the Zoo Licensing Act 1981 or the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976), so a licence isn’t required to keep them.

"However, our community safety team is now in discussion with police colleagues to see how we may help to resolve the matter in the interests of all concerned.”

An Emu was also spotted near the river earlier this year (Image: Hadleigh Fire Station)This comes after an emu was also rescued in May after an incident in the town.

A Hadleigh Fire Station crew was called to Tinkers Lane and Stonehouse Road where an emu was stuck in a river and unable to get out. 

The animal was then rescued and returned to its owner. 

It was one of two animal rescues that day with a deer also saved by fire crews after becoming stuck in railings.

A spokesman for the station said at the time: "Both animals are now back where they belong."