Moose population in southeast Saskatchewan appear to be declining, according to local conservation officers.

"We have noticed that populations in the southeast have declined," explained Conservation Officer Rich Hildebrand. "That, in part, will be from the tough, long winter we had and ticks might play a part. The numbers seemed to have declined slightly and throw into that some illegal hunting, it's always a concern."

In April, conservation officers received a call about a moose that had been shot about 11 kilometres west of Benson. They investigated and found the head and legs of a moose. As well, it seems the cow was pregnant as a fetus was left at the scene. The investigation continues and Hildebrand shared a bit about what officers are looking for.

"They're going to be looking to see if they can find any evidence if somebody dropped something, look to see if they can determine what kind of calibre of firearm that might have been used, gathering any information from any possible witnesses. There are numerous things they can do and each situation is going to be slightly different."

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Ministry of Environment's Turn In Poachers (TIP) Line at 1-800-667-7561 or their local police.

Hildebrand also shared a few tips on what to do should anyone come across a moose.

"Keep your distance, especially if they do have young. Later on, in the fall, they get into the mating season they can be aggressive if you get too close. Generally, moose are pretty leery of humans so you don't have to worry too much about that."