Boise moose last seen in Foothills and F&G asks people to report it if it remains in the area

A moose reported near Boise’s North End early May 22 was last seen in the north Boise Foothills near Wyndemere Drive, and Fish and Game officials are asking anyone who spots the moose over the next few days to report it to (208) 854-8964. 

The moose was first reported roaming near Shenandoah Dr. and Shaw Mountain Road at around 7:15 a.m., with multiple other reports at various locations throughout the morning. After a resident reported the moose was bedded down in a neighborhood near 27th Street and Irene Street in northern Boise, Fish and Game staff, along with Boise Police Department, responded in an attempt to sedate and relocate it. Before it could be sedated, the moose fled the area and crossed into the Foothills near Camel’s Back Park. 

“It was last seen heading away from the urban center, and hopefully it has made its way into the upper Foothills, but if it lingers in a neighborhood where it could pose a public safety hazard, we will do our best to relocate it,” said Brian Pearson, Southwest Region Communication Manager. 

Even in Southwest Idaho, moose will occasionally wander into populated areas, particularly young moose who are leaving their mothers during spring and early summer. This is the third case in the last year of a moose in populated areas in the Treasure Valley. Fish and Game staff sedated and relocated two moose last summer, one in Eagle and another in Hidden Springs. 

Moose are the largest member of the deer family and can weigh up to 1,200 pounds. While typically docile, when agitated, moose will attack people. A Ketchum woman was injured in a January attack after coming home and finding a moose in her yard, which was believed to be agitated by the woman’s dog. 

The latest Boise moose may wander back into the wilds and not be seen in town again.

"We appreciated everyone’s cooperation, and while it’s exciting to see a moose, please give it plenty of space if you encounter it, and report to us so we can determine the best course of action for the animal and for public safety," Pearson said. 

No matter where a moose may be encountered, these general safety precautions should be taken:

• Do not approach the moose.
• If a moose is seen on or near a roadway, slow down, but avoid creating a traffic hazard. 
• Watch for body language that indicates the moose is stressed, such as ears down or hair on their neck stands up. They can also stomp their front hooves and grunt or snort.
• If an unexpected encounter occurs, make sure there is some type of barrier between you and the moose, such as a large tree or vehicle.
• Keep pets contained or leashed, and away from the moose. Dogs, especially those off-leash can be perceived by the moose as a threat.
• Photographing a moose can be exciting but must be done from a safe distance.