It’s spring in Alaska! We know this because it’s rainy and cold. We also know this because the bears are waking up and moose are having babies. Most wildlife encounters should be reported to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The best part is that you may easily do so online. 

Here are examples of the types of encounters Fish and Game would like to know about:

• Injured or sick animals. The exception is when a marine mammal is stranded. In that case, call the Alaska Marine Mammal Stranding Network 24-hour hotline: (877) 925-7773 or (877) 9-AKR-PRD.
• Orphaned animals. Leave these animals alone, but please report them.
• Injuries caused by wildlife to humans (also call 9-1-1 if someone needs immediate medical attention).
• Any wild animal that is aggressive or approaches humans or that has been seen hanging around a campground or neighborhood.
• Dangerous moose encounters.
• Brown bear sightings in neighborhoods or in densely populated areas.
• Bears in garbage: A person can be fined if a bear gets into unsecured garbage or other attractants. This can become a dangerous situation if not addressed. If you can safely take pictures of a bear getting into someone’s garbage, then those are helpful.

Fish and Game’s website is www.adfg.alaska.gov. On the upper right-hand side you will see four options; click the button that says “report a wildlife encounter.”

Here are the situations wherein it’s appropriate to call APD:

• A person had a wildlife encounter, was injured, and needs medical attention.
• Someone is actively harassing wildlife.
• There is an imminent threat of peril or danger such as a bear breaking into an occupied home.

Please do not report perfectly healthy wildlife who are blocking the roadways or your driveway. This is one of the cool quirks of living where we do. If your car is blocked in your driveway – make noise.  This will generally encourage movement. Alaska is also one of the places where you can call your boss, tell him/her you’ll be late because a moose is taking a nap behind your car, and you’ll be believed.

Source: APD

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  Alaska, bears, encounters, Moose, reporting, wildlife