Ministry of Natural Resources Notice: Moose Sightings in Victoria Harbour
The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) is aware of two moose sighted in and around Victoria Harbour.
The MNR will continue to monitor the situation. The ministry strongly discourages the public from approaching wild animals, particularly one as large as a moose. No matter how friendly it may appear, moose are very large mammals and can be dangerous. Anyone who sees these moose, or any wild animals, should give it plenty of space to leave the area on its own.
Bull moose, especially in the fall breeding season, may be aggressive and easily agitated. Do not approach or reach out to touch a moose. Do not place yourself in proximity of a moose for social media.
The ministry would like to remind the public that feeding wildlife does more harm than good. Feeding wildlife can lead to:
- Animals becoming dependent on artificial food sources
- Animals losing their natural fear of humans and pets
- Becoming more prone to conflict
- Illness as artificial feed is not healthy for wildlife
- An increase of these animals being hit by vehicles
Household dos and don’ts:
Do:
- Appreciate wildlife from a distance
- Keep household waste, compost, and pet food out-of-reach from wild animals
- Attract wildlife to your property by improving natural habitat
- Work together with your neighbours to keep wild animals wild
Don’t:
- Put out food to attract wildlife
- Try to approach or touch wild animals
- Feed pets outdoors or allow pets to roam free
- Put garbage out until the morning of collection
More information about preventing and managing conflicts with deer, elk, and moose can be found at https://www.ontario.ca/page/preventing-and-managing-conflicts-deer-elk-and-moose
Information provided by the Ministry of Natural Resources.