Moose

quick key points
Moose are frequently seen throughout the City, being most active during sunrise and sunset. Take extra caution during this time and always ensure your dog is on a leash when out for walks.
They are unpredictable and more agressive during calving season from May to June and mating season from September to October.
Never approach a moose under any circumstances. If you are charged by one, run away as fast as you can and try to find a tree, building or other object to hide behind.

What Are Moose?

There are several moose that call St. Albert home and can often be seen foraging, resting, or interacting with one another throughout the city. They are most active during sunset and sunrise. Moose weigh up to 1,200 pounds and can run nearly 60 kilometres per hour!

They are unpredictable animals, particularly in the fall during mating season from September to October and spring during calving season from May to June. Moose experiencing tick infestations, commonly in late March or early April, will have bald patches and in extreme cases may appear to have no hair. These moose can be stressed and aggressive.

Mating Season

During the fall season, moose enter a period called the rut, which is their mating season from late September to late October. During this time, males become aggressive and can be more frequently seen throughout the city as they search for a mate. Male and female moose will often be heard bellowing for a mate, so it is best to remove yourself from an area if you hear those sounds.

Moose and You

Safety Tips

Moose should NOT be approached at any time, even if they appear calm and friendly.
Maintain a distance of at least 36 metres (120 feet).
Wild animals should NOT be fed, and do so can result in fines under the Wildlife Act. Feeding wildlife causes habituation and changes in behaviour. They may become more aggressive and less fearful of humans, increasing the risk of human/wildlife conflict.
Do not allow dogs off-leash. Dogs resemble the moose’s main predator, the wolf, and they will sometimes go out of their way to aggressively attack a barking dog.
Never approach calves that have been left alone by their mothers, as the mother is likely not far away and will defend her calf agressively if you are too close.
Bull moose should always be avoided.

moose walking in field If you are charged by a moose, run away as fast as you can and try to find a tree, building or other object to hide behind. Do not try to scare the moose by yelling or throwing items at it. A moose may charge at any time, with no prior warning signs. If the moose knocks you down before you reach safety, DO NOT fight; curl into a ball and cover your head.