101 Critical Days of Summer: Week 14 Wildlife safety

  • Published
  • By Compiled from staff reports
  • 354th Fighter Wing Safety Office
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Eielson is home to several different types of wildlife--the Alaskan moose being the most common sight.

Weighing in at almost 1,000 pounds, the average Alaskan moose weighs about six times as much as the average person. So what should you do when confronted by this large beast? 

The answer is simple; learn as much as possible about moose and moose safety. Moose are generally not aggressive, but they are wild animals and can be dangerous. 

Parents should educate their children on moose safety too because children are often out playing in the woods.

Children need to know what to do when confronted by a moose since they have the highest probability of coming face-to-face with one during the summer.

The majority of moose seen on the main part of the base are cows with small calves, and while this makes a great photo, it is a bad idea to get too close. Cow moose are very protective of their young and will not hesitate to defend them. A good rule of thumb is to use a camera with a good zoom. 

Another visitor to the base is the bear. While not as common as the moose they are occasionally seen roaming Eielson. Alaska is home to both the black bear and grizzly bear and it is a good idea to become educated on which animal is which. 

While seeing a bear can be exciting, it is once again a good rule of thumb to use a camera with a good zoom lens to get that close shot. 

If you do happen to spot a sow bear with cubs give her plenty of space because bears, like moose, will defend their cubs aggressively. 

According to Alaska Fish and Game regulations, it is illegal to feed wild animals simply because they lose their natural inhibitions and view humans as a source of or for food. If you are new to Eielson then it is a smart move to become educated on wildlife safety. 

If you have questions, or would like answers about wildlife and wildlife safety, you can contact the Natural Resources Office here on Eielson (377-5182) or contact Alaska Department of Fish and Game on College Road in Fairbanks.