(Submitted/Saskatchewan Association of Conservation Officers)

By Nicole Reis

WILDLIFE SIGHTING

Wildlife sightings in Meadow Lake rare but expected in surrounding area

May 7, 2020 | 5:00 PM

The City of Meadow Lake reported a moose was spotted in Lions’ Park in the early morning of May 5.

According to conservation officers, the sighting was rare to see within the city limits, however, during the spring months cow moose are likely looking for food or habitat as they will be giving birth to calves over the next month.

Glen Kurjata, inspector with Conservation Officer Service for the Meadow Lake area told meadowlakeNOW the city has not experienced an increase of animals coming into the community despite most people staying indoors until recently.

“We don’t see moose in the City of Meadow Lake very often, this was one case [where a] moose entered in and we believe it took a trip around Lions Park and went out towards the golf course and is probably somewhere where no one is bugging it,” he said. “It went in and came out just as quickly.”

The conservation officer said he receives very few calls about moose, but a city the size of Meadow Lake allows more space for animals to graze and if wildlife are spotted, they can be easily hazed out of city limits. The moose has not been spotted since Tuesday morning.

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As people re-emerge into public parks, wildlife safety is especially important as moose are looking for habitat and bears are coming out of hibernation.

“If you’re out walking and you do run into a moose or you’re on a trail and happen to see one, they can be unpredictable but keep your distance, make it known that you’re there, they will see you but don’t approach it and don’t try to get closer. They will move off on their own,” he said.

Kurjata said bears can also be seen this time of year which presents a different safety scenario for the public.

“Bears are out of hibernation this time of year, and they’re walking around looking for food sources and you have to be a little more alert as they are curious and can be more aggressive,” he said.

The same recommendation applies for bear sightings. Keep your distance, move away from the area and let the bear go on its own way. Never approach or try to get close to wildlife for a picture. Let the bear have their exit strategy.

Moose, deer and elk are attracted to natural sources of food. However bears, predators and even skunk can often be attracted to pet foods, bird feeders or things that are left out as food attractants. If wildlife are known to be in the area, particular attention can be paid to ensure food sources are not accessible to animals.

“For a large game animal like a moose or deer, their instinct is to never approach either, they’re probably just as startled at the time you run into them,” Kurjata said. “Don’t run but you can move off – the biggest thing is don’t approach. You don’t have to run. Don’t approach it and don’t try to startle it, just move away from it.”

The officer recommends residents keep food locked in bear-proof containers, putting pet food away at night and ensuring garbage is cleaned up and locked away. Pets tied up on a leash overnight are safe as long as they are not aggravating animals. Barbecues can be an attractant and are recommended to be cleaned after use and covered overnight.

Anyone who finds themselves in a potentially dangerous situation with a large predator should contact their local Ministry of Environment office or call Saskatchewan’s 24-hour Turn in Poachers and Polluters (TIPP) line at-1-800-667-7561. SaskTel subscribers can also reach the TIPP line by dialing #5555 on their cell phones.

Wildlife Precautions

A statement issued by the ministry of environment said black bears and other potentially dangerous animals such as cougars – move around to establish new territory and look for food. This is normal behaviour for wildlife, especially for younger animals, but it can result in safety issues for humans.

“In Saskatchewan, urban areas have been built along natural wildlife corridors such as rivers, forests and valleys. Wildlife traveling these traditional passageways can sometimes come into conflict with people and property,” the statement read.

“Remember to always take the necessary safety precautions when outdoors, particularly in areas where there is a higher risk of encountering predators, such as in the forest or within parks. While hiking or walking, keep your pet on a leash. An unleashed dog may aggravate a bear. It is recommended that you carry bear spray and learn how to use it properly.”

If you encounter a bear or other predator, keep your distance and do not try to scare the animal away or handle the situation yourself. Leave the area if you can. Most often, the animals will move on without any intervention. In most cases, black bears will threaten but not attack. If attacked, defend yourself but do NOT play dead.

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nicole.reis@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @nicolereis7722