LAKEVILLE — An emu on the loose, apparently abandoned by its owners, captured Lakeville’s attention for the better part of a week.

Located and captured on Saturday, Sept. 9, the big bird “will now be living in an awesome home,’’ Animal Control Officer David Frates reported.

No details were provided on where the bird is living or whether its previous owners will face charges.

Emus are the second largest living bird, second only to ostriches. They can be as tall as five feet and weigh more than 100 pounds. The birds can reach sprinting speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. 

A search for the emu, which had been seen in the area of Lang Street and County Road, lasted several days. The emu was located on Lang Street.

Frates thanked the Lakeville Police Department dispatch department for handling many calls from residents with information on “the once elusive emu.’’

Dispatchers “kept us up to date of all the sightings.’’

He also thanked patrol officers “for opening the way for us to go upon private property, their presence helped make a difference.’’

“Thank you to all the people who had faith in our department,’’ Frates said.

They were determined to capture the bird safely, he said. “Quitting [was] not an option,’’ he said.