Residents asked to give wildlife wide berth

As roads open and close for human traffic, people need to realize that wildlife may find roads and groomed trails their best way to get around as well.

Wyoming Game and Fish officials are asking people in Jackson and Wilson to be patient with moose and other wildlife, who sometimes show up in developed areas during the winter.

A large number of residents have reported wildlife in residential areas. Wildlife officials say animals may often use plowed roads as a path of least resistance.

“It really is a matter of simply being aware and giving animals plenty of room,” said Kyle Lash, South Jackson Game Warden for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. “We often don’t expect to see these animals in our neighborhood or developed areas, but this time of year we should be more cognizant of that possibility.”

Generally, he said, the animals will not pose a threat to anyone as long as they have some space. Pet owners should also take care to make sure those animals don’t pose a threat.

If an animal should charge people, report the conflict to Game and Fish at 1-800-423-4113 or 307-733-2321. The department also suggested the following tips:

Be especially watchful during times of low light. Moose can be difficult to see at night. Look for tracks or other signs of moose on trails, pathways or around houses. Never crowd an animal or surround it. Always allow an animal an escape route. Always control pets while walking them and make sure there are no wildlife around before letting animals out of the house. View and photograph animals from a distance. Do not feed wildlife.

“This is a stressful time for all wildlife and we need to give them room, whether it’s in the backcountry or our own backyard,” said Lash.