A Tasmanian devil named Mary spent two weeks on the loose in Queensland, evading capture until she was found just two kilometers from the theme park she had escaped. Her disappearance sparked a search across the Gold Coast, surprising locals who had no idea such a creature was living nearby.
A two week adventure just outside the park gates
Mary vanished from her enclosure at a Gold Coast theme park in early June 2026. Staff searched the grounds but found no trace of her. For 14 days, the small marsupial roamed the suburban fringe, crossing roads and navigating backyards without being spotted. She was finally located on June 17, hiding in thick bushland near the park. A keeper spotted her during a routine sweep of the area. Mary was healthy, alert, and showed no signs of injury or distress.
Why locals took notice of a missing marsupial
The theme park is a major attraction on the Gold Coast, a city in Queensland, Australia. Tasmanian devils are not native to the region. They are found in the wild only on the island of Tasmania, hundreds of kilometers to the south. The idea of one wandering through a suburban neighborhood captured public attention. Residents reported hearing unusual noises at night and spotting a strange animal near their homes. Some expressed concern for the devil's safety, while others worried about their pets. Park staff assured the public that Mary posed no threat. She is a captive bred animal used to human contact and was likely more scared than dangerous.
How the search ended without a scratch
Mary was taken back to the park and examined by a veterinarian. She had lost a small amount of weight but was otherwise in good condition. The park's animal care team said she had probably survived on small prey and scavenged food. Her escape route remains unclear. Staff believe she may have squeezed through a gap in her enclosure or climbed over a barrier during a maintenance period. The park has since reviewed its security protocols and reinforced all devil habitats. Mary is now back on exhibit, though she has become something of a local celebrity. Her two week adventure made headlines across Australia, turning a routine escape into a story of survival and curiosity.
