East Texas educator’s lost kangaroo returns after Beryl passes

WOOD COUNTY, Texas (KLTV) - A kangaroo belonging to an East Texas educator was reported missing Monday ahead of Hurricane Beryl, but returned home safely Tuesday morning.

Amanda Galyean, also known as The Creature Teacher, posted to Facebook Monday that Quigley the kangaroo had gone missing in Wood County near Alba. With Beryl approaching, the educator was worried for the marsupial’s safety.

When Gaylean was reunited with her lost kangaroo, she was overwhelmed with emotion.

“I had gone outside to load up the animals, and I saw him, and I just started crying,” Gaylean said. “We wanted to make sure he was okay. I hated for him to be alone, it was raining so bad last night.”

Texas is one of 13 states where it is legal to own a kangaroo.

“They become our family,” Gaylean said. “We feed them, we water them, we care for them, and love on them as much as we do your favorite dog, if you will.”

Gaylean’s role for The Creature teacher sees her bring exotic animals to birthdays, schools, and other events across East Texas.

She said the exposure her online post received saying her pet went missing stood out.

“Never underestimate the heart of people, of even strangers,” Gaylean added.

She added, laughing, that it is important to “double check the door before you go out.”

Galyean thanked her followers and nearby residents for assisting in the search for Quigley.

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