Twin orphaned moose calves rescued in Alberta

Alberta Fish and Wildlife officers saved two moose babies after their mother was hit and killed by a car outside Sherwood Park.

On May 27, officials got a report of two possible orphaned calves on Wye Road east of the city. That’s when they found a cow moose struck by a vehicle

And not far away, her two babies.

The moose calves were orphaned when their mother was hit by a car. Photo: Natural Impressions Graphics and Photography/Facebook

The babies would not likely have survived on their own.

“With the assistance of the caller, the officer successfully captured the moose calves and transported them to a rehabilitation centre,” Alberta Fish and Wildlife explained in a Facebook post June 4.

It was photographer Haeli Carter’s daughter who made the report. So of course, Carter, of Natural Impressions Graphics and Photography, was on hand to help and document the rescue.

“First approach the babies ran, second approach the lay flat and accepted help,” Carter posted on Facebook. “The Officer and Hazel carried them back to the Fish and Wildlife truck and safety.”

One lucky baby. Photo: Natural Impressions Graphics and Photography/Facebook

But not all orphaned or injured animals would get a second chance.

Alberta regulates which facilities can accept animals and how many animals are permitted.

“Though it’s not always possible to rehabilitate all orphaned or injured wildlife, it’s always rewarding to be in situations where officers are able to help wildlife,” the province explained.

Another lucky moose. Photo: Natural Impressions Graphics and Photography/Facebook

But just because you see moose babies without their mother, it always doesn’t mean they need help.

“Wildlife mothers will often leave their young for periods of time to search for food and may not be too far away, so it is important never approach moose calves that have been left alone by their mothers,” the wildlife officer explained.

But these ones definitely needed help.

On their way to a wildlife rehabilitation facility. Photo: Natural Impressions Graphics and Photography/Facebook

The best thing to do is keep an eye on an animal you are worried about — from a distance — for at least 24 hours.

“If, after this time, you still do not see the mother return, call the nearest Fish and Wildlife office for advice on how to proceed in a way that’s safest for you and for the animal,” officials explained.

On their way to safety. Photo: Alberta Fish and Wildlife/Facebook

“Babies were taken to the vehicle and tucked in behind the seat,” the photographer later posted on Facebook. “The officer was amazing! She not only took the time to rescue them, but also drove them to Medicine River Wildlife Centre. So happy they are safe :)”