Moose are the tallest land mammals in North America and are frequently seen in our communities.
Moose are wild animals and need to be given space and privacy. Stay safe by keeping an appropriate distance. Moose are not normally aggressive but can be very dangerous if approached or startled, especially females with calves. Given the sheer size and strength of these animals, moose are capable of inflicting serious injuries. Moose can be found in wetlands, forest habitat and willow thickets. Moose sightings have recently been reported on popular Ridgemont trails in Fernie and are often seen in James White and the Annex parks.
Never approach a moose. Give the animals a wide berth and ensure they have an escape route.
If a moose does charge you, getting inside a nearby building or car is the safest option, but hiding behind a large tree or other solid object may effectively block the charge.
Moose will attack dogs as they view them in the same category as their natural predator, the wolf. Keep your dog leashed if moose are in the area.
Perhaps the biggest threat that moose pose to human safety is through vehicle collisions. Protect yourself by adjusting your speed in areas where moose are known to frequent especially between dusk and dawn.
For more information on moose and other wildlife go to Wildsafebc.com
editor@thefreepress.ca
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