A fugitive pig rampaging through a neighbourhood for several days has been captured in Pennsylvania.

The farm animal, dubbed 'Hamilton' by local police, had been seen repeatedly by residents wandering around Hamilton Park in the Lancaster Township.

Manhein Township Police dispatched police officers to a house on Elm Avenue after a homeowner called saying Hamilton had taken refuge under a trampoline in his yard on June 15. They also enlisted help from Lancaster Farm Sanctuary staff to catch the wantaway bovine.

The officers tried to coax the pig into the back of a farm van using food scraps. But despite its massive size, Hamilton managed to evade capture, darting around their feet as it fled back to Hamilton Park.

The Manhein Township Police said in a statement: 'A foot pursuit of the escaped swine ensued, and yes, we see the irony in three cops chasing a pig. As it turns out, Hamilton wasn't as tired as we thought because we're fairly certain he's the fastest pig alive.

'After nearly being struck by a passing Tesla on Atkins Ave, Hamilton made a break for the open parking lot along West St and into another fenced-in area...which happened to be the courtyard of Pediatric Specialty Care on Rider Ave.'

Police continued the pursuit around the health centre's outdoor play area, and finally chased Hamilton into a crate after 20 minutes.

The pig, which has been re-named Gregory, was taken to the Lancaster Farm Sanctuary, where it will live out the rest of its days in peace.

In a statement, Lancaster Farm Sanctuary said: 'He is really scared and it seems he hasn't had much contact with humans. But he is safe now and we think when he finally meets the other pigs, he is going to be so happy. We have named him Gregory.

'Gregory has a vet appointment next week. He is a large un-neutered male and will need surgery — not to mention lifelong care. It's also clear he has parasites. But otherwise hopefully he has no major health problems.'