CHUBBUCK, ID — Idaho Fish and Game officials safely relocated a large adult female moose on Wednesday morning after it wandered into a residential neighborhood in Chubbuck.

According to the department, Fish and Game personnel, along with Chubbuck Animal Control officers and city staff, responded to reports of the moose near Whitaker Road, south of Vern Road, and west of Hiline Road. The animal was tranquilized and removed from a homeowner’s backyard before being released in a remote area with suitable habitat away from residents and traffic.

This marks the second moose relocated from a southeast Idaho neighborhood in less than two weeks. On October 10, a separate moose was removed from a residential area in Blackfoot.

“Moose and other wildlife regularly find themselves around people and developed areas and often are able to navigate away from these areas on their own,” said Regional Wildlife Manager Zach Lockyer. “However, when moose are in the heart of neighborhoods or commercial areas near busy roads, it is sometimes necessary to relocate the animal in the interest of both public and wildlife safety”.

Fish and Game reminds residents that moose, despite their awkward appearance, are powerful and unpredictable animals capable of charging when threatened, particularly if they have calves nearby. Officials advise the public to give moose plenty of space and ensure pets are kept at a safe distance.