Fish and Wildlife is offering tips for drivers after a moose was killed in a central Alberta collision earlier this week.
On Wednesday, police responded to a multi-vehicle collision on Highway 11 eastbound, between Sylvan Lake and Red Deer.
Police said a wayward moose was behind the chain-reaction pileup – one vehicle first struck the moose, then there was a second collision involving seven vehicles.
“It looked like a young (moose),” Blackfalds RCMP Sgt. Brent Dueck said on Thursday.
“Encounters with moose in that area I wouldn’t say are a super common event. But I also wouldn’t say it’s rare either.”
In a statement, Fish and Wildlife said it does not keep track of the total number of vehicle collisions involving wildlife because their officers are not called out to every instance.
“The days are getting shorter, and it is getting darker earlier. When you’re driving at night, it is important to remember that wildlife may also use our roads to travel. Roads are easy travel routes for animals, so it is essential to learn how to watch out for warning signs and how to avoid wildlife collisions while driving,” the statement said.
The government agency offered the following tips to drivers:
- Scan the roadway and ditches ahead for animals.
- Slow down in a curve, when reaching the crest of a hill or in wildlife-populated areas.
- Watch for the shining eyes or silhouette of an animal at night and use high beams.
- Improve visibility by keeping your windshield and headlights clean.
- Slow down if an animal is on or near the road and be prepared to stop. Their behaviours are unpredictable.
- Look for more than one animal – some travel in groups.
- Brake firmly if an animal is in your path, and don’t swerve to avoid it.
- Don’t throw food or food wrappers out your vehicle as this attracts animals.
- Report all collisions.
For more information on wildlife and road safety, visit saferoads.com/drivers/safety-issues/wildlife/wildlife.
sean.mcintosh@reddeeradvocate.com
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