A loose ‘alpaca’ spotted in Greendale turned out to be something far cooler

By Good Info News Wire

December 2, 2024

What locals initially thought was a wandering alpaca or goat in Greendale, Wisconsin, turned out to be something far more special.

In a heartwarming case of mistaken identity, what locals initially thought was a wandering alpaca or goat in Greendale, Wisconsin, turned out to be something far more special: a rare white deer that has captured the community’s attention and imagination. The deer, affectionately known as Penelope, has become something of a local celebrity, prompting the Greendale Police Department to issue a clarifying statement about their unusual resident.

A special visitor making headlines

The Greendale Police Department took to Facebook Thursday to address numerous calls from concerned citizens about what they believed was a loose farm animal. “There’s no need to call,” the police assured residents, explaining that the mysterious white figure was actually Penelope the deer, simply “doing what deer do,” grazing and wandering through the area.

The story gained additional traction when it was revealed that the Oak Creek Police Department had previously encountered Penelope in March, even posing for photos with the unique visitor. Local residents have enthusiastically shared their own encounters with Penelope on social media, documenting her appearances with photos and videos.

Understanding white deer

White deer like Penelope are particularly special because they result from rare genetic conditions. According to the National Deer Association, these deer can be either piebald, showing patches of white mixed with normal coloring, or albino, appearing completely white.

Under Wisconsin law, white deer are protected animals, so hunting or trapping them is illegal. This protection helps preserve these rare creatures for future generations to observe and appreciate.

Cultural significance

Beyond their biological rarity, white deer hold special cultural significance worldwide. According to the advocacy group Protect the White Deer, these animals are considered harbingers of good fortune in many cultures, adding another layer of meaning to Penelope’s presence in the community.

For those interested in learning more about these magnificent creatures or tracking white deer sightings in Wisconsin, additional information can be found on the Protect the White Deer site.