Moose found near mouth of Utah Canyon tranquilized and relocated

SPANISH FORK, Utah — A female moose was hanging out at the mouth of Spanish Fork Canyon off Highway 6 this week. But a biologist with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources calmed her down and she was placed on a trailer equipped with a water misting system.

Once the Spanish Fork moose was calm, DWR said she was moved to habitat higher in the mountains.

Stay safe if you encounter a moose

According to Wild Aware, adult moose in Utah can weigh between 600 and 1,000 pounds. Due to their large size, moose can be dangerous when they feel unsafe. Moose generally feel threatened when people get too close, which can make them aggressive.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources explained the physical warnings issued when elk become aggressive. These warnings include, among others, placing the ears back and lowering the head.

Here are some tips when you encounter a moose:

• giving the moose plenty of space,
• never feed or approach an elk,
• not running and slowly moving away from the moose,
• hide from the moose, if followed, and
• huddle into a ball to protect itself if knocked down by a moose.

The DWR also reminds Utahns that it is illegal to allow dogs to hunt wildlife.

More information on the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources website.

Need to report a moose?

Report to authorities if a moose is found in a low-lying area or populated area. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources may relocate the moose to a safer location.

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