GLENDALE, Calif. (AP) — It wasn't a typical jam up that slowed traffic Southern California's Glendale — it was a runaway circus camel.

KCAL-TV reports that a camel escaped from Ramos Brothers Circus Friday and began galloping down Glendale Boulevard with handlers in hot pursuit.

The circus says that "Atula" was about to be taken into the circus ring for an exercise but for some reason decided to break free.

Handlers eventually caught up with the rambunctious animal and led her back to the big top, but not before the sight of the exotic beast brought traffic to a stop.

The station reports that the camel's trainers say she has never run away before.