Moose calf hanging out at wildlife refuge

BONNERS FERRY — One of the most exciting wild animal sightings to see when visiting the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge is a moose. Many people drive and hike through the refuge and never see one, but recently, that has not been the case.

A moose calf has been hanging around for about a week, prompting concern from some people, and has even been seen resting in the parking lot.

While a moose calf would generally still be with its mother for another two months, for whatever reason, this one has been left on its own. However, orphaned calves at this age still have a very good chance of survival, especially having made it this far into winter.

This time of year, when the snow gets heavy, moose often hang out in areas that are plowed, so they don’t have to expend extra energy walking through deep snow.

Well-meaning people have put hay out for the calf, but this can be detrimental. The hay is not a typical diet and can be bad for the digestive system of the calf, and could even potentially lead to death, said Brian Johnson, Idaho Conservation Officer for Idaho Fish and Game.

“The best chance of survival is to leave the calf alone,” Johnson said.

He added that Fish and Game has been monitoring the calf closely, and feels his chances are good.

“We will continue to monitor the little rascal, and if the condition goes downhill, we may intervene,” said Johnson.

Johnson explained that the calf may join up with another weaned calf come spring time, so it may not be alone for much longer.