“As you know their habitat is changing. The landscape is changing and especially in the wintertime they're coming in to find the cover.” 

Conservation Officer Lindsey Leko with the provincial Ministry of Environment talking about the influx of moose within the city limits of Weyburn, and why they are being seen more and more frequently.  

There have been a number of reports of the animals in recent weeks, particularly within the Tatagwa area. Leko pointed out that they are finding things like cover and feed. This can provide some challenges in general, but for the most part, people should give the animals a wide berth.  

“The number one thing is, if you happen to see one roaming around, at any time of day, give it some respect and keep your distance from it,” Leko said.  

The moose that have been seen in Weyburn haven’t caused too much of a problem so far. This doesn’t mean they aren’t having close tabs kept on them. 

“We are just going to play it by ear, and if they do become more of a nuisance or do come to a point where, you know, they’re becoming a real danger to the public, well, then we’re going to work and make a plan to try and have them removed,” Leko added.  

The issue of moose making their way into the city isn’t something new in Weyburn. There have been a number of reports of the large animals making their way through town, looking for food and cover from the elements. When they do start coming into the neighbourhoods, however, action would be taken at that point.  

“We have to plan accordingly with the police to try and either head them out of town, or, you know, sedate them and move them out again,” Leko stated. “It’s not always our best option because, you know, it doesn’t always end well for the moose. But at the end of the day, public safety is what’s paramount.” 

Leko added those who do see the moose around the city outside of the Tatagwa area can contact the conservation officers or the city police and then the two agencies can come up with a plan to deal with the large animals.