Wandering Bull Moose Captured and Relocated in Santa Fe
In a recent incident, a bull moose decided to take a stroll in downtown Santa Fe, causing quite a stir. Fortunately, authorities swiftly intervened to ensure the safety of both residents and the animal.
State Game and Fish officials, along with Animal Service Officers from the city, responded to reports of the moose sighting near Fort Marcy Park around 8 a.m. The park, a favorite spot for walkers, had unexpected and unconventional company.
To protect the people in the area, officers established a perimeter around the moose. Bulls, especially during the breeding season starting in late September, can get a bit testy, posing a potential risk to humans and pets alike.
To safely relocate the moose, it was sedated with a tranquilizer dart and carefully loaded onto a trailer. Following this, a veterinarian from the Game and Fish Department assessed its health, determining that the moose was in good condition.
Biologists from the department estimated the moose’s weight at over 900 pounds, and it was approximately 4 to 5 years old. In New Mexico, moose are considered protected game animals, and there is no open hunting season for them.
This unusual downtown encounter reminds us that even in the heart of the city, wildlife can occasionally decide to drop in unannounced. Thankfully, thanks to the quick and professional response of the authorities, both the moose and the Santa Fe community can continue on their separate paths.