Let wildlife stay wild

It’s warming up and more wildlife is making its way into neighborhoods.

In February Idaho Falls had a number of moose sightings throughout the city.

Idaho Fish and Game Regional Conservation Educator Gregg Losinski was busy tracking down a moose that was spotted at a Starbucks Drive Thru.

And recently in Pocatello a mountain lion was reported to be in someone’s backyard.

Losiniski said this is common this time of year, however, the best thing to do is leave the animals alone.

“Even though they look cuddly and cute and you don’t want to harm them, the animal doesn’t know that so they may get spooked,” Losiniski said.

Losinski said taking pictures of the animals or selfies isn’t a good idea either, and larger animals can be dangerous.

“We have a lot of moose coming through town but we have deer also. It’s not unusual to have lots of small animals like badgers. But the biggest concern that a lot of folks have are for animals like mountain lions and also bears,” Losiniski said.

If you see an animal don’t chase it.

“If authorities show up to help the situation please stay clear because with the case of the moose this winter, we had people chasing the moose trying to get pictures and that made our job more difficult. Potentially an injury for the animal as well as the humans,” Losinski said.

Losinski said animals are out looking for food this time of year and if an animal such as a bear shows up in your backyard call the police.

“A lot of times people can avoid the problem by notifying the police and not letting the animal just hang out,” Losinski said.

If a young animal is spotted Losinski said chances are the mother is nearby.

“Leave the animal alone and let nature take its course,” Losinski said.

For more information visit fishandgame.idaho.gov.