Fort Saskatchewan residents were greeted by a couple of moose walking through the city over the weekend.
Opportunistic photographers were able to capture a couple of the ferocious animals walking on the street and lazing in backyards.
Though beautiful creatures, dealing with a moose can be extremely dangerous and precautions should always be taken when coming in close contact with them.
Moose usually aren't aggressive but that can easily change if they are provoked or see a threat to their young.
According to information provided by the Alberta government, an agitated moose will exhibit the following signs:
- Neck and back hairs standing up
- Ears going back against its head
- Snorting
- Lip licking
When possible, it is best to steer clear to avoid a conflict with a moose. If you do find yourself in a situation where a moose appears to be preparing to charge you, it is suggested that you run and find cover in a tree, car, or building. In the event that the moose knocks you down, fighting back is NOT the way to go. Instead, the best course of action is to curl up in a ball and protect your head.
Photography from a safe vantage point with clear escape routes should be fine, but personal safety should always be front of mind when coming anywhere near these Canadian beasts.
With that, here are some of the photos that residents captured: