A homeowner in Kirkland, Washington, called 911 fearing a burglar had broken in, only for police to discover a wild bobcat perched at the top of the stairs.
The resident had heard banging inside the property in the Moss Bay neighbourhood. When officers arrived, they found the unexpected intruder inside the house, according to the Kirkland Police Department.
Police believe the animal entered through an open window after climbing a nearby tree. It may have been drawn inside after spotting the resident’s cat, which was unharmed.
Police use drone to monitor bobcat
Officers used an indoor drone to track the bobcat’s movements while keeping their distance. They were eventually able to isolate the animal safely until wildlife specialists arrived. ([kiro7.com](https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/bobcat-sneaks-into-kirkland-home-mistaken-burglar/WRVQVIA5MZB5JAV5BCZ7ERRNLE/?utm_source=openai))
Staff from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife sedated the bobcat before releasing it near Forbes Creek. The animal was not injured and no injuries were reported among the homeowner, police officers or pets. ([kiro7.com](https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/bobcat-sneaks-into-kirkland-home-mistaken-burglar/WRVQVIA5MZB5JAV5BCZ7ERRNLE/?utm_source=openai))
Kirkland police said anyone who finds a bobcat inside a home should move people and pets away from the animal, avoid approaching it and call 911.
