But the sheep we now call Elli had other plans. In mid-February, she escaped her confines and ran for her life: going “on the lam” for the next ten days. Now safe at Farm Sanctuary, Elli doesn’t have to run anymore.
Elli’s escapist escapade throughout Ramapo, NY united the community in securing her safekeeping. But because she was frightened and mistrustful of people, Elli would dart whenever someone got too close. The only time Elli appeared to feel safe was when she found a grassy patch to graze. But she never stayed in one place for too long—letting her guard down could be dangerous.
Sheep are prey animals, so instinct tells them to flee from any perceived threat. This, combined with Elli’s previous trauma, made her especially fearful. Elli likely saw, heard, and smelled death all around her at the slaughter facility—she may have even lost family and friends. She, just like them, had a strong will to live; the only difference is that Elli was lucky enough to escape—and she wouldn’t give up on her newfound freedom without a fight.
Still, Elli remained at risk on the run. The locals feared she might get hit by a car while darting from one neighborhood to the next—endangering her and any unsuspecting drivers. So the Hudson Valley Humane Society (Rockland) teamed up with the local authorities to remove Elli from harm’s way.