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Motorist unknowingly picked up bobcat on drive to Gila Bend

A motorist noticed the bobcat inside their engine compartment and the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office was sent out to help remove the animal.

GILA BEND, Ariz — A bobcat recently got a ride to Gila Bend but needed some help from some sheriff's deputies to get back into the wild. 

The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office said a motorist was driving to work when they unknowingly hit a bobcat and later noticed the wild animal lodged inside their engine compartment after parking the vehicle. 

MCSO deputies and Arizona Game and Fish officials were called out to assist in sedating the bobcat and removing it from the driver's car. The bobcat was successfully extracted without injuries and released back into the wild, MCSO said. 

Arizonans shouldn't try helping wildlife in distress alone. If residents find animals needing help, they're encouraged to call Game and Fish at 623-236-7201.

Credit: MCSO

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