Loose Bull on Newark Penn Station Tracks Finds Refuge at Skylands Animal Sanctuary

On a chilly December morning in 2023, commuters at Newark Penn Station in New Jersey witnessed an unusual sight: a loose bull roaming the train tracks. The incident, which caused significant delays for NJ Transit services, ended with the safe capture of the bull, later named Ricardo, who was taken to the Skylands Animal Sanctuary & Rescue in Sussex County.

The Incident

The bull, estimated to be about one year old and weighing around 800 pounds, was first spotted on the tracks at Newark Penn Station. It managed to travel more than two miles south before being corralled by authorities near Frelinghuysen Avenue in Newark's Weequahic neighborhood. The operation involved multiple agencies and resulted in the tranquilization of the animal to ensure its safe transport to the sanctuary14.

Skylands Animal Sanctuary & Rescue

Skylands Animal Sanctuary & Rescue is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a safe haven for animals rescued from various dire situations, including slaughterhouses, live markets, and cases of neglect or abuse. Located on 232 acres in Wantage, New Jersey, the sanctuary offers a home to over 400 farmed animals, providing them with food, shelter, veterinary care, and a chance to live freely without the threat of harm235.

Ricardo's New Home

Ricardo, the bull, is now part of the Skylands family, receiving individualized care and attention. His story is a testament to the sanctuary's mission of rescuing animals and advocating for their welfare. The sanctuary not only provides a safe environment but also educates the public about the importance of compassionate living and veganism36.

Impact on the Community

The incident highlighted the work of animal sanctuaries like Skylands, which play a crucial role in rescuing and rehabilitating animals. It also raised awareness about animal welfare issues and the need for public support in protecting these animals from harm. The sanctuary relies on donations and volunteer efforts to continue its mission, making community engagement vital to its success38.

Conclusion

Ricardo's journey from the train tracks to the sanctuary is a heartening tale of rescue and rehabilitation. It underscores the importance of organizations like Skylands Animal Sanctuary & Rescue, which work tirelessly to ensure that animals like Ricardo have a second chance at life.

Sources:

1. CBS News, "Ricardo" the bull recovering at animal sanctuary after escaping onto Newark, NJ train tracks, https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/ricardo-the-bull-on-newark-nj-transit-train-tracks-skylands-animal-sanctuary/

2. Skylands Animal Sanctuary & Rescue, Animals to Sponsor, https://skylandssanctuary.org/animals-to-sponsor/

3. Give Freely, Skylands Animal Sanctuary And Rescue Inc, https://givefreely.com/charity-directory/nonprofit/ein-471354492/

4. ABC7 NY, Loose steer spotted on train tracks near Newark Penn Station captured, https://abc7ny.com/bull-newark-penn-station-nj-transit/14182948/

5. Skylands Animal Sanctuary & Rescue, Home Page, https://skylandssanctuary.org

6. Skylands Animal Sanctuary & Rescue, About Us, https://skylandssanctuary.org/about-3/

7. ProPublica, Skylands Animal Sanctuary And Rescue, https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/471354492

8. Yelp, Skyland Sanctuary, https://www.yelp.com/biz/skyland-sanctuary-wantage