Ostrich Runs 15km Along Motorway in Chonburi

An ostrich was spotted running along a motorway in Chonburi on 7 April, covering around 15 km and briefly causing concern among motorists. The bird was seen keeping pace behind a cement truck from Bang Lamung towards Tapong district, with videos of the bird quickly going viral on social media. Despite the unusual and potentially dangerous situation, the ostrich was later confirmed to be unharmed.

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The bird’s owner, Isara Boriboon, who runs a cat cafe in Bang Lamung, explained that the ostrich escaped when a cement truck arrived at the premises. As the truck departed, the gate was not closed in time, allowing the bird to run after it. The ostrich, one of two five month old birds named B1 and B2 kept at the cafe, had previously only roamed within the cafe grounds and nearby fields.

According to Isara, he estimated it actually ran around 15 km along the road. Members of the public who spotted the bird contacted the owner and managed to catch it. Isara confirmed he went to retrieve the bird.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

The incident drew widespread attention online, with many sharing clips in an effort to locate the owner and ensure the bird’s safety. While no accidents or injuries were reported, the sight of a large flightless bird running alongside traffic raised concerns about road safety and the risks posed by escaped animals on busy highways.

Khaosod reported that authorities were not reported to have intervened, but the situation highlights the importance of secure enclosures for exotic animals kept in public facing venues. The safe recovery of the ostrich prevented what could have been a more serious incident. Isara is expected to return the ostrich to the cafe, where measures will likely be taken to prevent a similar escape in future.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 8 Apr 2026